The South African Hockey Association has announced the lineup for the Under 21 Women’s Squad for 2024. The 34-player team, now under the leadership of head coach Cindy Brown, is preparing for two major upcoming tournaments: the SA Hockey IPT in September and the Junior Africa Cup in Ghana in October.
These events are crucial stepping stones toward qualifying for the expanded 24-team FIH Junior World Cup in 2025.
The squad features a mix of seasoned and fresh talent. Thirteen members of the team competed in the FIH Junior World Cup in Santiago last December, including standout players Malikah Hamza, Taheera Augousti, and Ntsopa Mokoena.
Additionally, several squad members have represented South Africa in senior national teams across various hockey formats. Cerian Fourie and Laiken Brisset bring their experience from Indoor Hockey, while Rea Phume and Paris-Gail Isaacs have played the traditional 11-a-side game.
Germarie Spershott and Rea Phume have also played in the fast-paced Hockey5s format.
This squad was chosen based on performances at the South African U21 Hockey IPT, held at the University of Cape Town. North West emerged victorious in this tournament, defeating Western Province in the final.
The full roster for the SA Women’s U21 Hockey Squad 2024 includes:
Alexandra Eagles, Amber Fairon, Amy van Rooyen, Ane Janse van Vuuren, Angele Vogel, Arisha Van Niekerk, Baylee Engelke, Caylin Maree, Cerian Fourie, Chanel Genis, Germarie Spershott, Ifeoma Ndubueze, Iman Bonnasse, Jade Regnart, Jenna Blaauw, Jodie Blows, Katlego Bodibe, Kayla Swarts, Kelly Van Rooyen, Laiken Brisset, Leané Mclaren, Lilly-Anne Theron, Malikah Hamza, Nomsa Mzizi, Ntsopa Mokoena, Nuriyah Bell, Paige Salis, Paris-Gayle Isaacs, Reabetswe Phume, Richele Norval, Taheera Agousti, Talita Modiakgotla-Botha, Tanya Pieterse, Teshawn De La Rey.
Coach Cindy Brown shared her enthusiasm for the upcoming challenges, saying, “This squad is the future of South African hockey. We have a blend of experienced players and new talent, all of whom have shown exceptional promise and commitment.
Our main goal now is to prepare thoroughly for the upcoming tournaments and to secure our place in the 2025 FIH Junior World Cup.”
With diligent preparation and high aspirations, the South African Under 21 Women’s Squad is set to make a significant impact at the SA Hockey IPT and the Junior Africa Cup, aiming to position themselves as strong contenders on the international hockey stage
Photo: Africa Hockey Federation, X
