The overcast day with the odd drizzle did not dampen the spirits of many hockey enthusiasts during the Rhodes University Inter-Res event.
The overcast day with the odd drizzle did not dampen the spirits of many hockey enthusiasts during the Rhodes University Inter-Res event.
The hockey took place on the Rhodes Astroturf on Saturday. The 16 teams involved were: Piet Retief, Jan Smuts, Stanley Kidd, Oppidan Boys, Cullen Bowles, Guy Butler, Oppidan Girls, Rosa Parks, Hobson House, Centenary, Graham, Olive Schreiner, Lilian Britten, Helen Joseph and Allan Gray with two teams.
After a long day of hockey, the final two in both divisions were decided. In the men’s division, it was Jan Smuts versus Piet Retief whereas the women’s final saw Rosa Parks versus Lilian Britten.
Both finals proved to be close as they both ended in single-goal margins. The victors and 2015 champions being Jan Smuts and Rosa Parks after winning 1-0 and 2-1 respectively.
Jan Smuts’ player Rowan Bromham had this to say: “The team went in with a lot of confidence because we all play Rhodes Club together so we know each other’s strengths and weaknesses.”
He said Jason Wehmeyer was their standout player as he was their top scorer with three goals. Wehmeyer said he was proud of his contribution as he was victorious in his first year at Rhodes, adding that he was “surprised, I haven’t played hockey in over a year”. With the women’s draw, Rosa Parks were crowned champions.
Kayla McEwan, sports representative and one of their players, praised her team for their efforts. “The team only consisted of one first-team player and the other five didn’t play hockey but do however have a history of playing.”
The newly crowned champions will have to work hard in order not to be dethroned next year and 2016 promises to be a good one. sport@grocotts.co.za
