Stellenbosch University has no less than eight former Maties Hockey players in the South African teams for the Paris Olympic Games.
The squad includes former Maties men Daniel Bell, Andrew Hobson, Keenan Horne, and Jacques van Tonder. The women representing their country are Quanita Bobbs, Stephanie Botha, Erin Christie, and Kayla de Waal.
Another alum is Jacques le Roux who is the goalkeeper coach.
Van Tonder, Hobson, De Waal, and Botha are making their debut in the world’s most prestigious and historic multi-sport event. For the others, it will be a chance to make new memories after Tokyo.
“Every year, you face new challenges, and you need to rise to the occasion! Lots of players didn’t make the cut, and therefore, wearing the jersey, you don’t only represent your country, but you also represent those teammates. We, therefore, have the responsibility to give it our all! All Glory to God for his faithfulness.” – Keenan Horne
“I dreamt about this my whole life.” – Jacques van Tonder
“I’m extremely honoured to be selected to represent Team SA at the Paris Olympics. I could not be prouder. Dedication and resilience guided me through the highs and lows to achieve this milestone. The hard work never stops, though, and we continue to strive for more and to make our mark amongst the world’s best.” – Daniel Bell
“Be relentless in pursuit of your dreams. I’m incredibly honoured to be selected for the South African Hockey Women’s team alongside my amazing teammates. We are a force to be reckoned with, and we can’t wait to battle it with the world’s best.” – Quanita Bobbs
“I’m unbelievably proud to be included in the South African Hockey Women’s team heading to the Paris 2024 Olympic Games. I look forward to taking the field with my incredible teammates on the biggest international stage. This one is for everyone who walked this hockey journey with me.” – Erin Christie
“This one is special for so many reasons. It was always a dream of mine to represent my country on the biggest stage that sport has to offer. But that was just a dream. Until that dream became reality. The journey has never been easy. Falling short year after year, trying to make my mark and now I’m here. Going to the Paris Olympics, with some of the best teammates I have ever had in my hockey career, doing something I love. I’m privileged, honoured, and so grateful to be part of this amazing team.” – Stephanie Botha
Hockey schedule at the Olympic Games
27 July: SA Men v Netherlands @ 12:45
28 July: SA Women v Australia 12:45; SA Men v Great Brittian @ 20:15
29 July: SA Women v Argentina @ 17:30
30 July: SA Men v Germany @ 10:30
31 July: SA Women v Great Britain @ 10:30; SA Women v Spain @ 1945
1 August: SA Women v Spain @ 17:30
2 August: SA Men v France @ 19:45
3 August: SA Women v USA @ 13:15
4 August: Quarterfinals