What started back in 2015 with just 14 teams and 84 players has grown exponentially, with this year’s event boasting 43 teams and over 300 young hockey enthusiasts ready to showcase their skills.
The excitement is building as the ninth annual turfWAR Primary Schools Hockey Festival is set to take place this coming Friday, August 30, and Saturday, August 31, 2024.
What started back in 2015 with just 14 teams and 84 players has grown exponentially, with this year’s event boasting 43 teams and over 300 young hockey enthusiasts ready to showcase their skills.
This growth is a testament to the festival’s popularity and the increasing interest in hockey at the primary school level. Unfortunately, the event couldn’t be held in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, but it has bounced back stronger than ever.
Participating Schools
The 2024 edition of turfWAR will feature a diverse group of schools from across the region, they are: Kimberley Junior School, Herlear Primary School, West End Primary, Eureka Primary, Staats Primary, Beacon Primary, Vooruitsig Primary, Futurum Akademie (Jan Kempdorp) and Jim Fouche (Bloemfontein).
These schools will be competing across three age categories, with matches spread over two days and two venues.
Schedule and Match Formats
The festival kicks off on Friday with the Under-13 matches, which will be played on full fields in an 11-a-side format. These matches will take place at Keeley Park and Cassandra Astro from 12 noon.
Saturday morning will see the Under-9 and Under-11 teams take to the field at Keeley Park Astro. The Under-11 matches will be played on quarter fields in a six-a-side format, with games running from 8am to 12.30pm. The Under-9 matches will also follow a six-a-side format on quarter fields.
Each team participating in the festival is required to provide an umpire for their matches, ensuring that the event runs smoothly and fairly.
A festival with a purpose
The turfWAR Primary Schools Hockey Festival is more than just a competition; it’s an opportunity to introduce young players to the fast-paced and exhilarating game of hockey on astroturf.
The experience gained at this festival is invaluable, as it allows these youngsters to develop their skills in a highly competitive environment while fostering a love for the sport.
The event is not just a showcase of young talent but also a celebration of the growth and enthusiasm surrounding primary school hockey. As the teams prepare to hit the astroturf, anticipation is high for a weekend filled with exciting matches, sportsmanship, and the pure joy of playing the game.
Whether you’re a parent, teacher, or hockey fan, the turfWAR Primary Schools Hockey Festival promises to be an event not to be missed. Be sure to head to Keeley Park and Cassandra Astro to support the young players and witness the future of South African hockey in action.
