South African hockey faces challenges including financial constraints, lack of exposure and corporate sponsorship as well as competitive opportunities. While transformation and development efforts are in place, hockey in South Africa still faces challenges related to inclusivity and representation.
It is against this background that Hyundai Automotive South Africa is sponsoring the Hyundai U16 St Andrews Hockey, Netball and Squash (SAHNS) festival, taking place at St Andrew’s School for Girls in Germiston, from 21-23 March 2025. The festival attracts a number of local schools around Gauteng and this year marks the fourth consecutive year of Hyundai Automotive South Africa’s sponsorship.
“This festival attracts a number of talented, young and aspirant hockey players. As Hyundai Automotive South Africa, we share a view that by supporting such events, we can contribute to harnessing and nurturing their talents. Some of the leading hockey coaches in South Africa will be in attendance and therefore, participants’ performances can catch the eyes of national selectors in future. Secondly, we want to harness and provide a platform to underprivileged schools and clubs, who have shown interest in the sport however had struggled to attract sponsorships,” says Gideon Jansen van Rensburg, CEO of Hyundai Automotive South Africa.
As part of our commitment towards communities-upliftment as well as growing hockey in South Africa, we introduced a Hyundai Hockey Gear Donation Drive. This initiative is aimed at encouraging donations of pre-loved hockey equipment (sticks, shoes, shin pads and stick bags) to benefit underprivileged schools and clubs around Gauteng. Donations can be dropped off at any Hyundai dealership around Gauteng or directly at St Andrew’s School for Girls.
“The campaign has already commenced and will run until 31st May 2025. We have been encouraged by the response and express our appreciation for all the donations received to date. We believe this equipment will go a long way in fostering and creating hockey interest for underprivileged schools and clubs,” added Jansen van Rensburg.
Hockey is one of the much-loved and fast-growing sports in South Africa. This weekend’s festival has already produced some of the thrilling performances between some of South Africa’s best young talent.
