For the love of the game - Passionate umpire teaches kindness and camaraderie through hockey.

Catching up with Wanri Venter ahead of the SPAR KZN School Girls Hockey Challenge

Words by Lachlan Nicholson

South Africa is a nation of sports lovers, where athletes who achieve success on the field are revered as heroes and legends. However, such glory would be impossible without the hard work and dedication of referees and umpires, who act as custodians of the games they love.

One such individual is Thomas More College sports coordinator, Wanri Venter. Now in her tenth year of service to the school, Venter has nurtured a love of hockey since her childhood in Stellenbosch, which grew as she became a student at the University of Stellenbosch. “I started umpiring during my first year at Maties (2000) because learning to do so was compulsory, but only really attended tournaments in 2004,” she explained.

As well as being an umpire and coach, Venter is still an active participant, “I enjoy hockey’s speed, fitness and physicality but most of all, the tactical aspect. The older you get, the more you rely on your experience.”

Officiating matches presents unique challenges because they are played at an ever-increasing pace. This makes the sport exciting for spectators, but requires umpires to be on top form at all times. “You strive to move constantly, so that you’re in the best possible position to make the right decision. When you umpire at a higher level, you need to trust your instincts because if you are unsure, you will miss the moment to step in.

“Often you’re like an actor on a stage; you need to sell your decisions using the tools at your disposal such as whistle tone, cards and body language. You need to earn the players’ trust by being calm, open to questions and confident.”   

Since earning her international badge in 2014, Venter has umpired 22 international matches, most of them locally between South Africa and Belgium, Scotland, Australia and India. She has twice travelled to Kenya; first to officiate for the Africa Cup of Nations then the World League Round One, she also was chosen to oversee several international indoor matches during December 2015 between South Africa, Australia, USA and Namibia.  

Venter believes that the lessons she’s learned from hockey have carried over into her personal life. “I have learned to never give up; the game is certainly not over until the final whistle. Friendships and other people's feelings are more important than winning the game.” 

Her next major event is the Junior World Cup in Santiago, Chile which takes place from the 23rd of November to the 4th of December. She will also be helping co-ordinate the upcoming SPAR KZN School Girls Hockey Challenge that takes place at St Mary’s next month.

For those interested in becoming umpires, Venter has these words of wisdom, “The best place to start umpiring is with the little ones, as they play for pure enjoyment. As you gain confidence, you can umpire older age groups.” 

Chatting to up-and coming umpire Ansie Joubert

SPAR KZN Regional Hockey Tournament

Interview with Ansie Joubert

Newcastle has a rising star in hockey umpire, Ansie Joubert.

The motivated and driven sports star was recently crowned as the Most Promising Umpire at the annual Northern KZN Regional of the SPAR KZN Regional Hockey Tournament.

“I thrive on the energy that you always feel at a hockey field, there is always something happening.  I love the team spirit in hockey as well as the competitiveness.  I really enjoy the action.” the gentle Joubert states.

“I started playing hockey in Grade 1, all my friends and my sister played, so I joined them.  I have never regretted this choice.

Asked what a memorable moment on the pitch was, she claims, “For some reason the ones I remember most is playing through injuries.  One that especially stands out is playing evening league in Bloemfontein in winter, with legs cramping and ice chips hitting you as you ran, with no-one on the bench because they were all down with flu, we had to play through it.  Luckily we won that game, so it’s a good memory.”

“I am not playing hockey at the moment, but my main positions have always been left striker or left link.  However I was always happy to play where our coach needed me. I even played one game as goalie.” Joubert says smiling.

“Currently I coach Mini hockey as well as our schools under 13A team.  I have also been privileged to coach our under 13 district side for the past 3 years, this year will be the fourth.  I am lucky that I can live out my passion for hockey in a variety of ways, with umpiring now also added in the mix.”

“On the umpiring front, I have been umpiring informally since 2012, only umpiring for my hockey team while coaching. I have always been delighted to accept when other umpires offered to umpire for me.” 

Thinking back, Joubert recalls, “If I remember correctly the first time officially with the whistle, it went okay! Luckily it was not a big game.  Last year I umpired once, for our first team where I was rather a nervous wreck as I did not have a lot of confidence.  Luckily I umpired with a friend, who was willing to help me a lot.”

“This was my second SPAR tournament, last year I enjoyed supporting our team from the side lines.  At the regional this year, I was honoured to officiate in the final at Pionier High, where Ferrum beat Dundee. That would have to be the biggest game I have blown so far.”

Away from the hockey field, the motivated and driven sports start relishes aqua-activities, “Swimming is another favourite for me, I swim the Midmar Mile every year, and then I also take part in triathlons. I occasionally play tennis, scuba dive and have even tried surfing before.”

“I enjoy any kind of adventure, going out and doing new things. I also enjoy reading, drawing and travelling. I would still love to travel to Greece, hike the Inca trail in South America and then go sky-diving!”

“I had the privilege to summit Mt Kilimanjaro with my mom and a group of students, parents and colleagues from school in 2012, an achievement and experience that no one can ever take away from me. I am a farm girl, who enjoys being outdoors, being active and learning new things, whether it is surfing, skiing in Switzerland, rowing down the Orange River or hiking the Otter Trail. These experiences affirm the feeling that I have lived and hope to continue to do so.”

Continuing, the passionate teacher said, “After three years of living in London, I really enjoy the slower pace of life in Newcastle.  We have most things that we need here, it is a big town, yet everyone works well together and one can still have good relationships with people.”

Originally from Dundee, the young whistle blower works in Newcastle, and lives at the school she teaches grade 2s, “I am also head of St Dominic’s Academy’s Boarding Establishment which has its challenges but is rewarding.”

Her eyes light up as she concludes the chat, stating, “I still visit on my parents’ farm during the holidays, this is where I recharge and find my peace.”

Chatting to Up-and-Coming Field Hockey Umpire, Jason Naidoo

SPAR KZN Regional Hockey Tournament

Interview with Jason Naidoo

Asked how he would describe himself in one word, Jason Naidoo claims, curious!

Naidoo, a former pupil from Kingsway High School was recently elected as the Most Promising Umpire in the Durban South Regional at the SPAR KZN Regional Hockey Tournament where he was representing his Alma Mater.

“That was my third SPAR tournament that I was a part of! Our girls did well finishing in the top four and we all enjoyed ourselves.”

“The first time I picked up a whistle, I was in Matric.” the confident young man shares, “There was a shortage of umpires, so I was asked by my first team coach to help out by umpiring a junior girls’ match. We were taking on Hillcrest at Hillcrest.”

“It was rather nerve wrecking. Not wanting to mess up or show any bias, I tried my hardest to see everything I could through the bunched group of girls around one ball but I actually enjoyed it.” continued the cheerful gent.

That was five years ago and he is still going strong, both with a whistle or hockey stick in hand. “In my eyes, the fast paced nature of hockey stands out the most to me. This mixed with the physicality and technical skill required makes hockey my favourite sport! There's just something magical about being out on a just-watered astro on a hot day.”

The gorgeous young sporting star spends his working days being a Striker for Red Bull, which is an international term for members of their off-premise sales team; he is responsible for how the brand is communicated within retail and convenience stores.  

“My hobbies include playing sport and keeping active. I also really enjoy exploring new and interesting coffee shops and dinner spots. On the sporting front I participate in both soccer and cricket too. Recently I've taken up golf which is a whole new challenge but I'm enjoying it! I play in the defence as a left or right back; the thrill of defending your goal as someone descends is exhilarating.”

Talking about a moment that stands out for him on the pitch, he reminisces, “I have played a lot of hockey but one of my favourite moments has to be at the Stellenbosch festival in 2008. We made it, unbeaten, to the finals only to meet a local rival in Thomas Moore College. The number of supporters and the atmosphere throughout that match was special. It was the most closely-fought match I have ever been involved in. We unfortunately lost the final in penalties but it will be a match I will never forget.”

His motto in life reveals how determined he is, stating he says, “Set your standards high and never settle for less than you deserve!”

On his bucket list, the adventurous soul said, “At the moment sky diving is a big one on my bucket list! With a whistle, it would have to be blowing a Germany vs Australia game at the Riverbank Arena, where the 2012 London Olympic Games were held.”

Still residing in the town that he grew up in, Naidoo affirms, “We have the best people here in Amanzimtoti and in Durban! When you couple our beautiful, laid back people with our stunning, all-year-round, weather you realise we're living in the best city in the world!”

The highly motivated individual reveals, “I'm passionate about the community and kids specifically! I run a junior youth programme every Friday that involves lots of sport, fun and most importantly life skills.”

The Sports Manage at Kingsway High School, Kerry Warne included, “I have known Jason for 10 years. He’s always been a really good friend, always helpful and reliable. As a coach, he is very passionate. He loves his sport and is very loyal to Kingsway High. Even though he now has a full time job, he still finds the time to help us out on the weekends with coaching and reffing.”

Naidoo, together with nine other umpires will take to the pitch to oversee the Grand Finals of the SPAR KZN Regional Hockey Tournament in July. 

Chatting to up-and-coming field hockey umpire Ziyaana Booley

SPAR KZN Regional Hockey Tournament

Interview with Ziyaana Booley

Described as ambitious, determined, energetic and focused, Ziyaana Booley is making a name for herself in the hockey world.

Having recently been nominated as the Most Promising Umpire in the Durban North Regional at the SPAR KZN Regional Hockey Tournament, representing Northlands Girls’ High School, Booley together with nine other umpires from around KwaZulu Natal, will head to the Grand Finals to gain more experience.

“The SPAR tournament was my first time I umpired properly; I usually just stick to playing. So umpiring was definitely something new. Initially it was really scary but I think I soon adapted to it.” the beautiful young lady states.

Having played in three of the SPAR tournaments in the colours of Northlands Girls High, the budding umpire states, “I am very proud of myself that I have that experience now, being at the other end of the game. If I were to pursue an umpiring career, I would love to officiate in a game between South Africa and Argentina. Being in the thick of the passionate Argentinians and surrounded by players I admire would be utterly invigorating.”

When not umpiring or studying, the recent matriculant enjoys softball, cross country, swimming and life-saving. “I definitely enjoy coaching the little kids at Chelsea Prep and probably just cycling along the promenade for fun!”

“I am a defender when I play. I started playing when I was really young and it’s all thanks to my mom for taking me to mini-hockey from a young age. I love the fact that you never really know what is going to happen on the pitch or how you are going to play, it’s all just in the moment.”

Asked about a moment that stands out for her, she states, “Probably playing my last school game for Northlands with all my friends, everybody just had so much positive energy.”

“I enjoy playing hockey because of the competitiveness of it, and the fun and excitement you get playing the game.”

Sports Co-Ordinator for Northlands Girls’ High School, Cynthia Field enthused about her former pupil, “I have known Zee since Grade 8 and she is a very talented girl who does not like to brag about what she has achieved. She is very disciplined and trains and plays hard. She captained our hockey and softball sides, she is an accomplished swimmer and was house captain and sets very high standards for herself.  She is extremely fit and still holds the record in the school for the Beep Test got to over 100 shuttles!”

The fledgling sporting star who dreams of travelling to as many different countries as possible, claims her favourite quote is from the AMC series’ Mad Men star Don Draper, Make it simple. But significant! Her bright future promises to be just that, significant.

Chatting to Umpire Tarryn Woodroffe

SPAR KZN Regional Hockey Tournament

Umpire Profile: Tarryn Woodroffe

“I love all sports and love being involved in any way I can whether it is in the organisational side, playing, umpiring or even just watching.”

These are the passionate words of Pietermaritzburg’s Tarryn Woodroffe as she sits on the side of the hockey pitch observing the unfoldings of the gold silver game at the SPAR KZN Regional Hockey Tournament.

A minute into the game, Durban Girls College slot a well-crafted goal into St Anne’s net, “I play sweeper or centre half and a while back I saved a shot at goal by Henna du Buisson at an IPT off the line, behind the keeper. That moment is still one of the best moments that I have had on a pitch.” she claims impressed by the attack that just occurred!

The young umpire representing Pietermaritzburg Girls’ High School in the grand finals was selected as the Most Promising Umpire of the ‘Maritzburg Central Regional, displaying a level head and superb knowledge of the game during the tournament, she was given the honour of looking after the bronze game that had her school take on newcomers Westville Girls’ High.

“The game was pretty intense with both teams playing extremely well but my girls managed to score two goals so we got a third place after a hard weekend of hockey!” the smiling official shares.

Talking about her experience, she said, “I umpired a semi-final in the South African Women’s Country Districts Tournament not so long ago. That was also really exciting.” she adds, “I was playing in the final so I couldn’t umpire that!”

“I was very nervous but I was surprised at how much I actually knew.” Woodroffe admits when she chats about her first time she had picked up the whistle. “I started umpiring when I left school but would say that I have been umpiring proper teams for about three years.” She states proudly.

“With all the international games that are taking place, our girls participating in the Commonwealth Games at the moment, I would love to take to the field to officiate our girls when they take on Australia. To be a part of that must be such an adrenaline rush.”

Continuing, she says, “Playing hockey actually is an adrenaline rush for me, I just love the game! Hockey is in my blood I guess. My whole family plays hockey! Both my aunts played for South Africa and my cousin, Jade Mayne, is currently playing in the South African Women’s team.”

With a twinkle in her eye, she enthuses, “I want to go and watch my cousin Jade Mayne play in Brazil at the next Olympics. I am working towards ticking that off my bucket list. That and going and watching Wimbledon.”

Her determination shines through as she comments, “There is no such word as can’t! I had a back operation or fusion a few years back and was told I would never play hockey or squash again BUT I refused to take no for an answer and have since played even better and at a higher level.” 

Chipping into the conversation, coach for Girls High Taryn de Winnaar sitting near contributes, “Tarryn started with us this year but her and I have played hockey together for a while. She is a close friend and I really value what she has to offer. She has a super work ethic, always prepared to work hard and always willing to learn. She has the potential to do very well not only with her umpiring but also in her profession!”

Bashful, Woodroffe picks up, “Coach Div and I are involved in the U16 basketball team this term. Under Div’s guidance, I have been very fortunate to learn so much in the short time I have worked at Girls’ High. It always helps working with someone so talented and passionate.”

“I am helping every now and then with off season hockey training but we have now switched to basketball as our main focus.”

In her scarce free time, Woodroffe enjoys running, a game or two of squash, swimming and cycling. “I am playing at the women’s IPT in three weeks’ time in the B section for South African Country Districts and am very proud to be the Captain of the team.”

“I have been out of action for a couple of years owing to having my two little boys, Zac and Rory and have been recovering from a groin repair operation from last year but am going to give it my all and see if I still have what it takes with the stick as opposed to with the whistle.”

Chatting to Hockey Umpire Tanya Pepler

SPAR KZN Regional Hockey Tournament
Umpire Profile: Tanya Pepler

The infectious smile of Newcastle’s Tanya Pepler beams as she briskly controls a school girls’ hockey game.

Watching her keep firm control of the game, balancing that with her vivacious character is affirming and attractive for the school girls and the enjoyment of the game.

Pepler has been umpiring for close on ten years and was recently nominated as the Most Promising Umpire of the SPAR KZN Regional Hockey Tournament and will be travelling to Durban to officiate the finals.

Chatting after the game, she admitted, “The first time I picked up a whistle, I loved the feeling of being ‘in control’ of the game, but a better knowledge of the rules probably would have been beneficial.” she claims chuckling with a twinkle in her eye.

No stranger to blowing in some big games, she has was in charge of the South African U18 vs Australia U17 game a couple years back and the final of the 2006 U21 IPT final as well as the IPT ‘B’ final. Before the grand finals, Pepler will be taking up the role of Umpire Manager at the U16 National Tournament in Pietermaritzburg from 6 – 12 July.

Pepler has umpired in all of the SPAR KZN Regional Hockey Tournament regionals since its inception. “I have done four regionals and would do another 40 if I could. The format is fabulous!” the dedicated athlete states. “I love the fact that skills are constantly developing in hockey. That anyone can play it no matter what age, and that it’s something that builds confidence both as an individual and as part of a group.”

Quizzed if she could umpire any game in the world which two teams would be playing and at what grounds? Her answer was an animated, “Netherlands and Argentina. And seeing that my region has no astro-turf and this a fantasy, it would be the first game on our brand new astro.”

“We grew up next to the hockey and cricket field.” explaining how her love for the game began. “Both my parents played and my mom still coaches today. We had hockey sticks from a young age, went with on all the tours and generally caused chaos and had lots of fun until we were old enough to be in teams of our own.”

The agile centre back admits, “Picking up a stick after taking a break is just like riding a bicycle – you never lose that feeling.” When she has time, the active lady loves to swim, cycle and play a round of golf. Her hobbies include reading, designing Mimio teaching lessons and building enormous clay castles with her four year old son, Trent.

Asked about a moment that stands out for her on the pitch, “There are too many to mention. But there is nothing like the feeling of signalling and allowing a great advantage goal. That always makes me feel good.”

Talking about why she loves living in Newcastle, she enthuses proudly, “The fact that ‘rush hour traffic’ means an extra five minutes. The fact that we have game farms, hiking trails and so many other scenic things literally on our doorstep – I want to create a love for nature and the outdoors in Trent, and so far it seems to be working!”

On her bucket list, Pepler would love to go white water rafting and explore Africa. “And I really want to travel to Cuba!” she admits with a smile. Concluding she confesses, “I do make a mean steak-and-beer pie! And I have never bribed a police officer, with anything other than a smile or tears!” she wraps up with an enormous smile.

“Even though I want to go and explore South America I've taken the plunge and bought a plane ticket to Malta in October to go to a friend's wedding, so Cuba is definitely on hold.” said a beaming Pepler.

Her parting shot was a quote that she loves, “Be who you are and say what you feel because those who mind don't matter and those who matter don't mind. The wise Dr Seuss mentioned that I just love it!”

Images by Sophie Thompson or supplied

Chatting to Hockey Umpire Donovan Rothman

SPAR KZN Regional Hockey Tournament

Umpire Profile: Donovan Rothman

Armed with a whistle, Margate’s Donovan Rothman is making an impact in the hockey world.

Chatting about the first time he picked up a whistle, Rothman admits, “The first time I picked up a whistle, it was in an early morning game in Pietermaritzburg, a Men’s 1st division game. The guys weren’t in the best of moods but it went ok.”

That was almost ten years ago, now the more experienced player was recently nominated as the Most Promising Umpire for the Ugu Sisonke region. Representing the Southcity Christian College, Rothman will be travelling to Durban to officiate in the finals of the SPAR KZN Regional Hockey Tournament.

This was his third regional tournament that he has been a part of. “The biggest game I have blown was the semi-final of the South African Country Districts Men’s Tournament last year; I think I did a fairly decent job.” The retail store manager from Uvongo says smiling.

Talking about what he most enjoys about hockey, he states, “I love the team spirit on and off the field.”

Continuing he says, “I don’t play anymore due to a back injury but I give back to the sport and schools by umpiring. It is nice to show the kids the other side of the game; I believe it gives them a better appreciation.”

Rothman’s wife, Kelly is a Grade R teacher at Southcity so he loves to get involved helping at the school. “I help out at a few other schools as well.” said the proud chap.

“I started playing many, many years ago, for me hockey was better than playing rugby. I just love the game!” 

The workaholic who used to play right half, nowadays clears his head by hitting the road, “I am a keen marathon runner. I find being on the road relaxing. The simple monotony of running allows me time to think and just have a break from the everyday bustle.”

Chatting about a moment that stands out for him on the pitch, he proudly shares, “I remember umpiring a game where John and Peter Wright played and they backed a call I made against their team. That simple acknowledgement was so affirming for me.”

The South Coast lad, given the opportunity, would love to officiating in an Olympic final, “If I could umpire any game in the world it would be between Germany and Holland at the Olympics. To be a part of that occasion would be such an honour and to be amidst the giants of the game, the energy, the pace and the precision would be mind-blowing.” Continuing he says, “Hopefully the Olympics will be held here soon!”

Concluding the tall athletic frame shares, “I truly believe that you have to live today as if there is no tomorrow.” 

Hanging out on the side of a field hockey pitch

Some of my favourite shots from standing on the side watching 8 regional hockey tournaments.... 

Great, fast action on the pitch.

Chatting to an Olympic Hockey Player - Lenise Marais

Two weeks, 193 athletes, 20 sports, 6 medals and countless memories, the South African Olympic team sure made our country extremely proud, one member of the team was Montclair’s Lenise Marais who participated in the women’s hockey, returning with their best result in an Olympics, finishing tenth overall.

“It was a truly memorable occasion, being there with my team through it all. I shall cherish the memories.” a smiling Marais shared.

“The Opening Ceremony was magical. Seeing the torch being lit was a tingling experience.”

Having competed at the Beijing Olympics in 2008, Marais commented, “London did well! There were obviously some differences but overall we were all very impressed! Beijing will always be very special to me; it was my first Olympics so experiencing all my Olympic firsts. But having the honour of competing at both was fantastic!”

Marais, who plays in the defence, wearing jersey number 21, said “All the games at the Olympics are tough. We opened up our Olympic campaign against Argentina who won the silver medal, and it didn’t get any easier after that.”

“Our final pool game against USA, we managed a convincing win which gave us a bounce in our step. One of my best moments during the Olympics would have to be saving a ball flying into the goal off the line, got the heart pumping and boosted my confidence.”

“It was a sweet feeling not having to play the eleventh and twelfth classification match and our performance means that we have now jumped up to number ten in the world rankings, now that is an achievement! Obviously we have seen which areas we need to work more on and will do that. But as mentioned, a move up the table is very rewarding, now for a few more places.” she smiles mischievously.

The hockey world had the opportunity to play on the brightly coloured pink and blue pitch, which we as viewers sitting at home battled to keep track of the ball, Marias laughed, “We played and trained on the pink and blue turf before the tournament so we were ok with it. Friends did message me complaining that they struggled to keep an eye on the ball watching TV, and when I watched the game on TV could see what they meant.”

Chatting about her time off between games, “Off the pitch, in and around the Olympic Village, I had the opportunity to meet Roger Federer; he was very nice and let us take a team photo with him. I also spotted Serena Williams, the Italian tennis player Francesca Schiavone, Jamaican sprinter Usain Bolt, a few American swimmers and Steve Waugh and John Eales who were travelling with the Australian team. Certainly sporting icons were everywhere!”

“We were lucky enough to be able to rest for a bit after all of our pool games giving us the opportunity to see some sights, shopped a little, the exchange rate guarantees that and even went to the theatre.”

Having been away from home since May, she is slowly getting used to normal life, with the hockey season in full swing she intends to get back into the swing of things shortly.  “Hopefully we can win the upcoming Champions Challenge and move into the Champions Trophy event with the intention of staying there. I would have to say that would have to be my next goal.”

Asked how she would encourage young up and coming players, she assures, “Preparation is vital. Surround yourself with people who can help you with this, and push you. If you choose for it, then go full out.”

Marais, who is a teacher at Durban Girls’ High School certainly lives the Olympic motto of Inspire a Generation, concluding she states, “My legacy, flip.” Pondering she then continues, “I’m just a hockey player trying my best to do what is necessary and best for my team, all the time!”