SA Masters Hockey – World Cup 2026 Campaign Brief

SA Masters Hockey Association – August 2025

🏑 Overview

SA Masters Hockey is aligning its policies and procedures across all age categories (35+ to 75+) for the 2026 World Cup. A uniform approach to selection and preparation will ensure consistency and success.

We will no longer distinguish between over and under 60 teams for international competition, though selection methods will be tailored to each age group.

🧭 Selection Committee

A single SA Masters Selection Committee has been formed to oversee the process. It reports directly to the President and coordinates with selectors and coaches to ensure fairness and quality.

Committee Members:

  • Mark Halgryn – Chairperson
  • Barry Froneman
  • Debbi Gates

Responsibilities:

  • Define and implement a selection policy
  • Manage timelines and platforms
  • Review dispensation applications
  • Communicate selection matters
  • Appoint coaches, managers, and selectors

🌍 African Masters Invitational (AMI)

The AMI is a key selection platform—not a trial—but designed to simulate the FIH World Cup experience. We aim to include teams from at least two countries in the 2025 edition.

Goals of AMI:

  • Stress-test coaches and managers
  • Provide additional selection opportunities
  • Select SA A and SA B sides per age group (where possible)

Players will be selected based on:

  • IPT performances
  • Trials
  • Previous international experience
  • Visual recordings (if needed)

Participation in AMI does not guarantee or exclude selection for the World Cup.

🧑‍🤝‍🧑 Selection Panels

Men’s Panels:

Age GroupSelectors
35, 40, 45Steve Evans, Julian Hykes, Anton Peltenburg, Bryce West, Rob van Ginkel
50, 55, 60–75+Dave Reid-Ross, Colin Douglas, Graham Hawkins, Malcolm Williams, Ian Spooner

Women’s Panels:

Age GroupSelectors
35, 40, 45Jonty Robinson, Matthew Storti, Jordan Drury, Leon Keulder, Andi Bernstein
50, 55, 60–65+Andi Bernstein, Tracey Flowers, Madi Petersen, Chris de Koker, Jarryd Byron

🏨 World Cup Logistics Committee

A separate committee will handle:

  • Finances
  • Accommodation
  • Travel logistics

If you’d like to assist, please send a short CV to: 📧 Sharon Barnard – shazibhockey@gmail.com

🛡️ Our Values

For the Badge

  • Represent South Africa, our sport, and our team
  • Play to win
  • Play for each other

For the Love of the Game

  • Find enjoyment in playing
  • Respect and nurture the game

In the Spirit of Masters

  • Integrity
  • Fair play
  • Respect for opponents and officials

📬 Contact

For questions or input, feel free to reach out.

Reg Marais President, SA Masters Hockey

A big thank you to all contributors

We are absolutely overwhelmed and incredibly grateful for your extraordinary generosity in contributing towards the replacement of our defibrillator. Your support has been nothing short of amazing, and it truly makes it wonderful to be part of such a dedicated and caring community within the WP Grand Mashers hockey club.

This new defibrillator is a vital piece of equipment that will undoubtedly enhance the safety and well-being of all our members. Knowing that we have such a supportive group behind us makes all the difference.

We want to extend our deepest thanks to everyone who donated. A special acknowledgement goes to:

  • Alan Rubin
  • Adrian Aitchison
  • Andreas Redenz
  • Andy Mallett
  • Catherine Hishin
  • Clinton Brown
  • Clive Blecher
  • Daniel St Dare
  • Dennis Forster
  • Dereck McMahon
  • Glenn Turner
  • Glyn Bedford
  • Ian Raeburn
  • John Donald
  • John Shardlow
  • Karl Luff
  • Karla de Bruin
  • Kim Bultemeier
  • Mike Bolton
  • Mike Copeland
  • Moir Scholtz
  • Neil Lavin
  • Neil van Blerk
  • Peter Kratz
  • Ray du Plooy
  • Robert Baigrie
  • Robert Commin
  • Robert Freeman
  • Stephen Kelly
  • Steven Bell
  • Tony Barbour

And our five anonymous donors!

Your contributions, big or small, have made this possible. Your spirit of giving truly touches us.

With deepest gratitude,

And also a thank you to Rowland Graney, who is also working his magic to help us. We are working with him to see how we can benefit from his offer.

Summer League & IPT Update

Dear Ladies and Gentlemen,

This update contains important information regarding the upcoming Summer League, the KZN IPT, and the IPT team selection process. We understand there’s a lot to take in, so further details may be released in stages.

📅 Calendar Overview

The timing of the IPT in KZN, affected by World Cup preparations, will influence our Summer League program. Below is the proposed schedule:

Date Range (2025/6)Event Description
Sept 25 – Oct 16Six-a-Side games (IPT selection + open participation for all members)
Oct 23 – Dec 11First round of WPGM Summer League (up to 7 teams, break during AMI week)
Dec / JanFestive Break
Jan 8 – Feb 25IPT preparation games, Sunday training, and the IPT
Feb 26 – April 9Second round of WPGM Summer League games

🧢 IPT Team Selection

Our goal is to send competitive teams in each age group (55+, 60+, 65+, and 70+) with the aim of winning their respective pools.

  • There will be no one-off trial.
  • Selectors will assess players during the Six-a-Side games in October.
  • All Western Province players are eligible, regardless of Grand Masters League participation.
  • Selection will be based on observed skills and fitness during games, as well as other established performance indicators.

In cases where age groups have too few or too many players, selectors and the WPGM committee will seek permission from IPT organisers to enter combined age group teams.

⚠️ Ladies’ support for the IPT is currently limited, so there may be only one combined team.

Players selected for a “medal” team must play within their designated age group if another eligible player is available.

📢 Teams will be announced by mid to late October.

🧑‍⚖️ Selectors

Selectors will be appointed once they confirm availability and are approved by the Committee. Importantly:

  • No selector will choose players for an age category in which they intend to play at the IPT.

WPGM Winter League Mini Series 2025

Thanks for the great enthusiasm shown. The selectors have allocated players to teams attempting to match age, speed and agility. Please note the cost per game is R 65, not the previously mentioned amount.

The team members are not always the same. Subs can be called upon. Team admins will decide on the allocation of subs. The team’s admins are Brian Goemans, Peter Kratz, Neil Lavin and Martin Duys 

Fixture Summary

DateVenue18:15 Game19:15 Game
30 JuneWPCC – BPacers (White) Vs. Dashers (Black)Sprinters (White) Vs. Bolters (Black)
7 JulyWPCC – BSprinters (White) Vs Bolters (Black)Pacers (White) Vs. Dashers (Black)
14 JulyWPCC – BPacers (White) Vs. Dashers (Black)Sprinters (White) Vs. Bolters (Black)

Game: 30 June 2025

  • 6:15pm Pacers (W) V Dashers (B)
  • 7:15pm Sprinters (W) V Bolters (B)

Teams

SprintersBoltersPacersDashers
Mervynn MorcommTy LattyDerek McMahonLiz Brink
Allan IsaacsRory FitzmauriceEdmund FisherGrant Iriam
Andy MallettPeter KratzJohn DonaldMark Watson
Roy HenryDoug StreetMike CopelandAndreas Redenz
Neil van BlerkLuigiRobert FreemanDennis Forster
Brian GoemansJan TaljaardWarren MachanikMartin Duys
Steven BellNadine DallingJigger HalkettKarla de Bruin
Stephen DugmoreGlen TurnerTrevor KnightAlly du Plooy
James DavisTony BarbourPatrick OwenLita Roux
Grant MunroCraig RiederGuy JenkinsTracy Blanckensee
Leon LateganGraham HardingNeil LavinWendy Payne
Pierre PhillippsJohn LachenichtWendy GrayRay du Plooy
Clinton BrownDave McKechnieElvira RyanPeta Scholtz
Deon MaartDebbie GatesGeorge Frost
Suggested subs – available to both teams Suggested subs – available to both teams
Andreas RedenzAdmins to decideBrian GoemansAdmins to decide
Martin DuysJan Taljaard
Warren MachanikRory Fitzmaurice
Patrick Owen
Guy Jenkins
Ray du Plooy

Game: 7 July 2025

  • 6.:5pm Sprinters (W) V Bolters (B)
  • 7:15pm Pacers (W) V Dashers (B)

Teams

SprintersBoltersPacersDashers
Mervynn MorcomTy LattyKeeper tbcAlan Glasser
Allan IsaacsRory FitzmauriceEdmund FisherGrant Iriam
Andy MallettPeter KratzJohn DonaldMark Watson
Roy D-HenryDoug StreetMike CopelandAndreas Redenz
Ian ThomsonHaiko AlfeldRobert FreemanDennis Forster
Neil van BlerkJan TaljaardJigger HalkettMartin Duys
Brian GoemansNadine DallingTrevor knightKarla de Bruin
Steven BellGlen TurnerPatrick OwenAlly du Plooy
Stephen DugmoreVinnie OrchardGuy JenkinsTracy Blanckensee
Brent CombrickTony BarbourNeil LavinRuth Butters
Grant MunroCraig RiederWendy GrayPeta Scholtz
Leon LateganGraham HardingElvira RyanRay du Plooy
Pierre PhillippsJohn LachenichtDebbie GatesSteve Sherman
Clinton BrownDave McKechnieWarren MachanikGeorge Frost
James DavisLuigi
Deon Maart
Suggested subs – available to both teams Suggested subs  – available to both teams
Andreas RedenzAdmins to decideBrian GoemansAdmins to decide
Martin DuysJan Taljaard
Patrick Owen
Guy Jenkins
Ray du Plooy
Warren Machanik

Game: 14 July 2025

  • 6:15pm Pacers (W) V Dashers (B)
  • 7:15pm Sprinters (W) V Bolters (B)

Teams

SprintersBoltersPacersDashers
Mervynn MorcomTy LattyDerek McMahonAlan Glasser
Neil van BlerkRory FitzmauriceEdmund FisherGrant Iriam
Andy MallettPeter KratzJohn DonaldMark Watson
Roy D-HenryDoug StreetMike CopelandAndreas Redenz
Ian ThomsonHaiko AlfeldRobert FreemanDennis Forster
Alan RubinJan TaljaardWarren MachanikMartin Duys
Steven BellNadine DallingJigger HalkettRodney Palmer
Stephen DugmoreGlen TurnerTrevor knightTracy Blanckensee
Brent CombrickVinnie OrchardPatrick OwenKarla de Bruin
Grant MunroTony BarbourGuy JenkinsLita Roux
Leon LateganJohn LachenichtNeil LavinPeta Scholtz
Pierre PhillippsCraig RiederWendy GrayRuth Butters
Clinton BrownGraham HardingElvira RyanWendy Payne
James DavisDave McKechnieDebbie GatesSteve Sherman
Deon MaartLuigiGeorge Frost
Suggested subs – available to both teams Suggested subs – available to both teams
Andreas RedenzAdmins to decideJan TaljaardAdmins to decide
Martin Duys
Patrick Owen
Guy Jenkins
Ray du Plooy
Warren Machanik

Support WPGM Hockey: Quiz Night & Fundraising Appeal!

We will be hosting a Quiz Night (MC’d by Steve Sherman) soon, and we need your help to make it a huge success! This event isn’t just about testing your knowledge; it’s a vital opportunity to raise much-needed funds for WPGM Hockey.

We Need Your Support!

Quiz Night Prizes:

To make our Quiz Night truly engaging and rewarding, we’re looking for donations of prizes. Whether it’s a voucher, a hamper, merchandise, or a unique experience, every prize—big or small—will add to the fun and encourage participation. If you or your business can contribute, please let us know!

Critical Funds for Our Players:

Beyond the prizes on Quiz Night, we have two essential fundraising goals:

  • New Defibrillator Machine: The safety of our players is paramount. Our existing machines are ageing and will inevitably require replacement. This is an investment in the well-being of every player on our pitches.
  • Replenish Players’ Support Fund: Our Players’ Support Fund ensures that no player is left behind due to financial constraints. It assists with essential costs like league fees, travel, and other expenses, allowing all our members to participate and thrive in the sport they love.

How You Can Help

  • Donate Prizes: If you’re able to donate a prize for our Quiz Night, please contact Peter Kratz on email Secretary@wpgm.co.za today.
  • Monetary Contributions: Please consider making a financial contribution towards our defibrillator and Players’ Support Fund. Every rand makes a difference! You can donate directly to the WPGM bank account where you pay your fees, use the reference DEFIB or SUPPORT.
  • Spread the Word: Share this appeal with friends, family, and anyone who might be interested in supporting WPGM hockey.

Your generosity directly impacts the safety and development of our players and helps us continue to foster a vibrant and supportive hockey community.

WPGM League 2025 Team Selection Process

2025 League Team Selection Process

For the 2025 league, we implemented the following team selection process:

  • Specialised Selectors: Nine selectors were involved, with three selectors (two men and one woman) assigned to each playing line (defenders, links, and strikers).
  • Final Alignment: Two additional selectors were responsible for integrating the three lines into balanced teams.
  • Remote & Efficient Collaboration: The selection process was conducted remotely using a shared document. This allowed individual selectors to contribute their views on player strength, leading to a more efficient process and easier consensus among the smaller groups of three selectors.

Selectors were appointed based on their demonstrated commitment and understanding of team dynamics:

  • Defenders: Luigi Tollon, Ally du Plooy, and Allan Isaacs (Bobby Freeman was unavailable).
  • Links: GT, Nadine Dalling, and Tony Barbour.
  • Strikers: Glyn Bedford, Dave McKechnie, and Sharon Abbott.
  • Final Selectors: Neil van Blerk and John Shardlow.

The final team compositions were ratified by Warren Machanik and Gary Frayne to ensure each team had an effective administrator and that practical considerations, such as travel partners, were addressed.

2025 Weekly Substitute and New Player Allocation Process

To ensure fairness and prevent disagreement, we have introduced clear guidelines for substitute allocation:

  • Teams are no longer able to select their own substitutes.
  • Players cannot directly nominate themselves as substitutes to another team.

2025 Substitute and New Player Allocation Sub-Committee

To manage this process, I have established a subcommittee comprising team administrators and the Playing Affairs members of the WPGM committee:

  • Gary Frayne
  • Wendy Payne
  • Warren Machanik
  • Neil Lavin
  • Deon Maart
  • Brian Goemans
  • John Shardlow

Weekly Substitute Allocation Protocol:

  • Each week, we identify teams requiring substitutes. Gary Frayne then proposes a substitute allocation based on player availability.
  • The primary goal of the substitute process is to ensure a team has a viable number of players (ideally 13), rather than to specifically fill a position or guarantee player strength.
  • Substitutes are chosen from a list of available players, taking into account:
    • Whether they have a match scheduled for that evening.
    • How recently they have substituted (we rotate substituting opportunities).
    • Their preferred playing position.
  • We prioritise existing league members (even those who made themselves unavailable for the full league but are open to occasional substituting) before seeking external contacts. The same allocation principles apply to new players joining the league.
  • Once a proposal is made, two sub-committee members must approve it or offer a counter-proposal.

Please refer any suggestions regarding this process to the Player Affairs representatives.

AGM Minutes Of The WPGMHA 2025

Monday 05 May 2025, At WPCC, At 20h30
Venue: Chairman’s View WPCC

1) Opening

  • KL welcomed all to the meeting.

2) Attendance

  • Register circulated for signature.
    • See attached.

3) Apologies

  • As per the attached.

4) Adoption of Minutes

  • Minutes of the AGM of the WPGMHA held at the WPCC on 15 February 2024 (Note: Minutes posted on the WPGMHA website).
    • NL proposed, D St D seconded. KL noted they are on the website.

5) Matters Arising

a) Voting Rights

  • As raised at the SAGMHA AGM (5 April 2025). SGM was held.
    • KL noted that the SAGMHA has an SGM at 5 pm. First vote on voting procedure: 16–4 voted to use a vote as per WP objection.
    • Shane Deme is the new Chairman. Barry is the new Player Rep. WP will have 1 seat. GT will handle fundraising and transformation. KL remains as the Chairman rep for WP.

b) Principle of “No Pay, No Play”

  • KL proposed enforcing this principle. Passed as an option and accepted.
  • NvB noted that exceptions should be made for players who genuinely cannot afford fees. KL agreed, provided justification is given—the aim is to deter opportunists.

c) Proposed Changes to WPGMHA Constitution

  • None.

6) Chairman’s Report Back

a) Amalgamation of WP Masters and WPGM

  • D St D did significant work, but WP Masters never signed.
  • KL noted that SA Masters now treats SA GM as a province. The new committee will revisit this issue.

b) Player Report on SAGMHA IPT (EP, 4–6 April 2025)

  • Reports submitted but awaiting 60B. Will be posted once received. They are attached below.

c) Summer League

  • KL commended GF for managing the 7 teams—a great success.
  • Orange Team won the league; White Team won the SGM Award. AI won the Umpires’ Award.
  • Fewer disciplinary issues—thanks to captains, admins, coaches, umpires (CB), and physios.

d) Winter League

  • 6-team league—appears well-balanced and competitive.

e) Ladies’ Involvement for Next IPT

  • Imperative to include.

f) IPT Feedback

  • KL noted that WP performed well:
    • 55s & 60B undefeated. 60W, 65s, 70s also strong.
    • Complimented on discipline and sportsmanship.

7) Awards

a) SAGM awarded Long-service awards

  • NW and RB (recognised for contributions to WP & SAGM).

b) WP Awards:

  • RB: Trophy for commitment to WP & SA GM (since the first World Cup in CT).
  • JP (“Potty”): Trophy for contributions to WP teams & managers.
  • Mike: Trophy for longevity in the game.

8) Upcoming Tournaments

a) Master’s IPT (EP, 7–10 August 2025)

  • Spotters/Scotts for U60 (no WC selection).

b) Africa Cup (21–23 November 2025)

  • SA squad selections for WC (all age groups).
    • NvB raised concerns over pre-selection bias (SG Hockey favouritism). KL will clarify oncethe details are final.
    • CJ noted a ladies’ selector at IPT—concern as no WP ladies’ team participated.

c) SAGMHA IPT (KZN, 20–24 February 2026)

  • Final SA squad announcements.
  • KL: Potential humidity challenges. WC moved to August 2026 (originally October). Location TBD.

d) World Cup (60–80s – TBA)

  • Trials in November for 55–70s (men & ladies).
  • Managers to be appointed before trials for preparedness.

9) Financial Report

a) 2024 Financial Report

  • Distributed via email. One query on IPT expenses.
  • Thanks to B Alcock (unpaid work). Query on capitation rules (now per competition). KL to clarify SAHA levies.
  • IPTs are costly—may have undercharged.
  • Limited funds for KZN IPT. Assisted 5 players + managers’ accommodation.
  • Astro costs increased.
  • Full player fees are required to maintain subs. Some players reneged on commitments.
  • SS proposed fundraising — approved, SS to run with this.

b) Banking Account

  • 7k interest—allocated to players’ fund.

c) Weekly Games Fee – Review

  • No discussion noted. However, a budget has been done and invoices will be sent out.

10) Election of Office Bearers

  • Chairperson: KL re-elected.
  • Secretary: PK nominated and accepted.
  • Treasurer: WM to move across from secretary.
  • Player Affairs (Men): GF accepted.
  • Player Affairs (Ladies): WF accepted.
  • IPT Convener: NW accepted.
  • Governance & Discipline: DMc accepted.
  • Additional Committee Members:
    • NL (goalkeepers).
    • DM to remain.

11) General Discussion

  • BW: Complimented EP’s IPT organisation. KL to send thank-you.
  • LS: Raised selection issues. KL to respond once the official position is clear.
  • NW: Clothing policy—older kits for 65s/70s, newer for 55s/60s. Accepted.
  • CB: Umpire grading concerns. Proposed local grading (even if unrecognised by FIH).
  • CJ: Ladies’ teams—discussed Boland ladies and mixed Masters. NvB suggested continuing efforts.
  • TH: Proposed a working group to resolve issues.

Meeting Closed 21:43.

Attachments

Attendance Register

WPGMHA Attendance Register AGM 2025Download

Apologies Register

WPGMHA Apologies Register AGM 2025Download

Reports

IPTTeamReportBack-WP55sDownload
IPTTeamReportBack-WP60WsDownload
IPTTeamReportBack-WP65sDownload
IPTTeamReportBack-WP70sDownload

2025/2026 SAGMHA Executive Committee Announced

Following the successful convening of a Special General Meeting on 5th May 2025, we are pleased to announce the SAGMHA Executive Committee for 2025/2026:

  • President: Shane Deme
  • Secretary: Zelda Vermeulen
  • Treasurer: Pieter Scholtz
  • Corporate Governance: Karl Luff
  • Playing Affairs Men: Barry Froneman
  • Playing Affairs Ladies: Sharon Barnard
  • Marketing and Transformation: Glen Turner
  • Add Hoc Eastern Gauteng: Michael Holland
  • Add Hoc KZN: Basil Evans
  • Add Hoc Southern Gauteng: Monty Schwegmann

On behalf of SAGMHA and all its members, we congratulate the new committee and wish them success in achieving the objectives of the SAGMHA SGM.

Arrangements will be made to ensure that the Outgoing SAGMHA committee members provide an official documented handover to the President and the incoming portfolio incumbents.

B Froneman
Outgoing President
6th May 2025

Affiliated to WMH & recognized by FIH.

Outgoing Committee (2024/2025):

  • Barry Froneman (President)
  • Rob Birt (Acting Secretary)
  • Pieter Scholtz (Treasurer)
  • Basil Evans
  • Gary Talbot
  • John Potgieter
  • Karl Luff
  • Monty Schwegmann
  • Sharon Barnard

WPGMHA Annual General Meeting Notice 2025

Mark your calendars, hockey fans – it’s AGM time!

📅 Date: Monday, 5 May 2025
⏰ Time: 20:30 (post-games)
📍 Location: WPCC (Chairman’s View)
💻 Option: Zoom available (but in-person has better snacks)

Why Attend?
• Shape our hockey future
• Learn where your fees go
• Witness democracy in action
• Snag a committee position

📋 Full Agenda

  • Attendance – Sign in or Zoom in
  • Apologies – Tell us why you can’t make it
  • Minutes – From last AGM (available on website)
  • Matters Arising – Including voting rights and the constitution
  • Chairman’s Report – The year in review
  • Upcoming Tournaments – Mark these dates!
  • Financial Report – Show me the money
  • Committee Elections – Your chance to step up!
  • General Discussion – Have your say

🚨 Committee Call-Out

Several committee members are stepping down – we need fresh blood! Positions available:

  • Chairperson
  • Secretary
  • Treasurer
  • 3 Additional Members

Nomination forms available below: – deadline 5 May before meeting. No experience necessary – just enthusiasm and willingness to help.

AGENDA FOR THE AGM OF THE WPGMHA – 05 May 2025Download
WPGMHA-Nomination-Form-2025Download

See you there (or explain why not)!

Grand Masters Hockey Winter League 25 Update!

Hey all! Your admin team has been burning the midnight oil (and possibly a few brain cells) to get everything ready for the new season. Here’s what you need to know:

🏆 AGM – 5 MAY @ WPCC
Right after the last game (20:30). Want to get more involved? Nominations email coming soon!

✅ TEAM ALLOCATIONS
Your peer-respected selection panel (no secrecy, just wisdom) has carefully balanced the teams. Admins will contact you before Tuesday to reveal your squad. And yes – every team will have ladies, because awesome knows no gender!

⏰ FIXTURES = FAIRNESS
We’ve obsessed over the schedule so that every team plays:
🔹 At each venue exactly 5 times
🔹 In each timeslot exactly 5 times
No favorites – just pure hockey justice!

📅 KEY DATES

  • Season starts: 5 May
  • Mid-season break: School holidays (with fun age-specific games in the works!)
  • Season ends: Mid-September

💸 LEAGUE FEE
R975 – payable soon. Think of it as buying happiness (with optional sweat).

Remember: We’re all about that Grand Masters spirit – competitive but always with a smile (and maybe a cold one afterwards).

More updates coming soon. Now go find your shin guards – it’s almost game time!

[Your Name]
GMHA Admin

PS: If you’re reading this sitting down – stand up and stretch. Your hamstrings will thank you later!