Tag: league

Sept–Oct 2025 Mini Match Series: IPT Selection Starts Here

This has been updated please refer to the update:

Updated WPGM Sept/Oct 2025 Mini Match Schedule

It’s springtime! We’re kicking off our September–October Series, and this one’s a big deal—it’s the official selection process for the upcoming IPT (Inter-Provincial Tournament).

To be considered for an IPT squad, you’ll need to play in at least three out of the five matches. So, mark these dates on your calendar:

  • Monday, 22 September
  • Thursday, 25 September
  • Monday, 29 September
  • Thursday, 2 October
  • Thursday, 9 October

👥 Age Groups & Selectors

The teams will be split into age groups:

  • Men’s: 55s, 60s, 65s, 70s
  • Ladies: One group

Our selectors — John Shardlow and Nadine Dalling, with support from Dave McKechnie, Jigger Halkett, and Ally du Plooy — will be watching closely. Selectors will not select in a team for which they are eligible to play.

Teams will be announced in the first week of November.

🏟️ On the Field

Get ready for some fast-paced, competitive hockey! We’ll be playing half-field matches with smaller teams, focusing on building our short-game skills and fitness. This isn’t about winning or losing—it’s about showcasing your talent in a competitive setting.

On each of the evenings:

  • Hartleyvale: One of the matches will be a full 11-a-side game (or half-field, if that works better for your group).
  • WPCC: The other age groups will have multiple shorter, half-field matches.

Teams within age groups won’t be static—this gives us the flexibility to manage numbers and make sure everyone gets a chance to play.

Your age group admin will be in touch to confirm your availability for each match and keep you in the loop. Your admin will contact all players who signed up for SL and IPT by Wednesday, 10 September.

If you have not let us know you are keen to play Summer League or be considered for the IPT, please do that now.

🔁 Remember to bring both a white and a dark (black) shirt to every game.

☀️ Summer League Is Coming!

In other exciting news, our Summer League is right around the corner! The season is set to start on Wednesday, 16 October, and we’re aiming to have all seven teams finalised by the third week of September.

We can’t wait to see everyone out on the field—let’s have a great series!

📅 Match Schedule Overview

📅 Date🏟️ Venue / Time👥 Group🔢 Approx. Numbers
Mon 22 SepHartleyvale 18h3055s27 (*60s to sub if needed)
WPCC B 18h1560s14–16
WPCC B 18h1560s & 65s60s (6–7), 65s (6–7)
WPCC B 18h5670s14–16
WPCC B 18h5665s14–16
WPCC B 19h37Ladies12–14
Thu 25 SepHartleyvale 18h30Ladies26–28 (*subs on request)
WPCC B 18h1555s12–14
WPCC B 18h5660s14–16
WPCC B 18h5660s & 65s60s (6–7), 65s (6–7)
WPCC B 19h3770s14–16
WPCC B 19h3765s14–16
Mon 29 SepHartleyvale 18h3070s14–16 (*65s to sub if needed)
WPCC B 18h15Ladies12–14
WPCC B 18h5655s12–14
WPCC B 19h3760s & 65s60s (6–7), 65s (6–7)
Thu 2 OctHartleyvale 18h3060s22–23 (*55s to sub if needed)
WPCC B 18h1570s14–16
WPCC B 18h1565s14–16
WPCC B 18h56Ladies12–14
WPCC B 19h3755s12–14
Thu 9 OctHartleyvale 18h3065s & 60s65s (20), 60s (5)
WPCC B 18h1555s12–14
WPCC B 18h5670s14–16
WPCC B 18h5660s16–18
WPCC B 19h37Ladies12–14

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.

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!

Winter League 2025: Let’s Get Ready to Rumble!

The leaves are falling, the air is getting crisper, and the sound of hockey sticks clashing is just around the corner. That’s right—the WPGM Hockey Winter League 2025 is almost here! Running from May through September (fingers crossed for no rogue weather, loadsheeing, or alien invasions), we’re gearing up for another epic season of hockey, camaraderie, and maybe a few questionable umpiring decisions.

This year, games will be held on Monday nights at the following venues (at the moment):

  • 2 games at WPCC B-Field: One at 18:15 and one at 19:15.
  • 1 game at Hartleyvale B-Field: At 18:15.

To ensure we create balanced, competitive, and spirited teams (as is tradition), we need to know your availability for the league. A form will be coming your way shortly, and we need you to answer honestly—no fibbing, no wishful thinking, and definitely no “I’ll definitely make it this time” promises that you know deep down you can’t keep.

Just a note: We will need all responses by April 3.

Here’s what the form will ask:

Availability Options

  • Most games: You’re a hockey hero, ready to play more than 50% of the games.
  • Some games: You’ll lace up when you can, but life gets in the way (we get it, adulting is hard).
  • Available to sub: You’re the wildcard, the bomb squad, the one we call when teams are desperate (and trust us, they will be).
  • Not available: You’re sitting this one out, but we’ll miss you dearly.

Self-assessment (especially for the “Most games” crew)

  • How reliable are you?
    • Always (you’re a hockey machine)
    • When I can make time (you try your best, and we love you for it)
    • I’m a little erratic (you’re a free spirit, and we respect that)
  • Are you happy to play in a mixed team? {Y/N}
  • Preferred travelling buddies: Let us know if you have any preferences for who you’d like to travel or team up with. However, due to our goal of balancing the field hockey teams, we may not be able to guarantee that your preferences will be accommodated. We’ll do our best, but fairness and team balance come first!

Why Your Answers Matter

Your responses will directly impact:

  • Team selection: We’re not just throwing darts at a board (though that would be fun).
  • The budget: Fewer players = higher costs = sad treasurer = higher fees for everyone. Let’s avoid that, shall we?

So, when the form lands in your inbox, please fill it out promptly. Think of it as your first warm-up drill for the season. And remember, honesty is the best policy—typically.

Let’s make this Winter League the best one yet! If you have any questions, feel free to reach out. Otherwise, keep those sticks ready, those knees bent, and your sense of humour intact.

Looking forward to seeing you all on the turf (or at least some of you, depending on your answers).

Cheers,
Your WPGM Hockey Committee

P.S. If you don’t fill out the form, we’ll assume you’ve retired to become a professional couch potato. Could you not make us send a search party? 🕵️‍♂️

Fill in the form here

https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSetG5SVF0OVsRZngmeRJaEZZmyPlc51Mk6LyJYAIDs7SdLBGg/viewform?usp=sf_link

April 2025 Important Updates You Won’t Want to Miss!

WPGM Members: Important Updates You Won’t Want to Miss!

Estimated Reading Time: 2 minutes (and worth every second!)

Dear WPGM Members,

We know life is busy, and between work, family, and trying to remember where you left your hockey stick, finding time to stay updated can feel like a challenge. But this post is important—promise! So, take a quick break, grab a cuppa (or something stronger), and give this a read. It’ll only take 2 minutes, and it’s packed with stuff you need to know.

1. SAGMHA Board Positions – Step Up and Make a Difference!

The SAGMHA Board is getting a refresh, and we need you to help shape the future of grand masters hockey. Elections are happening on 5 April at IPT, and there are several positions up for grabs. Whether you’re a seasoned organiser or just someone who loves the game and wants to contribute, we’d love to hear from you.

  • President: Barry Froneman
  • Treasurer: Piet Scholtz (available for next term)
  • Secretary (acting): Rob Birt (acted since 2024 AGM, not available)
  • Governance and Technology Administrator: Karl Luff
  • Playing Affairs Co-ordinators: Monty Schwegman (Men) & Shazi Barnard (Ladies) (both available for next term)
  • Marketing and Transformation: Not filled
  • Adhoc Regional Chairperson Representatives: Basil Evan (KZN) & Gary Talbot (EG) (still deciding availability)

If you’re interested or just want to chat about what’s involved, email us at secretary@wpgm.co.za. Don’t be shy—this is your chance to make a real impact!

2. Winter League Start Date – Plan Ahead!

Thanks to the flurry of public holidays right after IPT (4-6 April), we’ll be starting the Winter League on 5 May 2025.

Please hold off on replying with your availability—we’ll send a dedicated request this weekend. Depending on the response, we may need to split fixtures between WPCC and Hartleyvale. Keep an eye on your inbox for more details!

3. WPGMHA AGM – Your Club, Your Voice!

Our AGM will be held after the games on 5 May, and we’ll be electing a new committee. There are several positions to fill, and we need passionate members like you to step up and help keep WPGMHA running smoothly.

If you’re interested in getting involved (or just want to know what’s involved), drop us a line at secretary@wpgm.co.za.

Why This Matters

This isn’t just another update—it’s about your club, your hockey, and your chance to make a difference. Whether it’s joining the SAGMHA Board, planning for Winter League, or helping out at the AGM, your involvement keeps this community thriving.

So, take a moment to think about how you can contribute. And if you’ve read this far, thank you—you’re the reason WPGMHA is so special.

Let’s keep the momentum going as we head into IPT and beyond. Together, we can make this season the best one yet!

Cheers,

WPGM Committee

P.S. If you’re not volunteering, you’re volunteering to listen to everyone else’s excuses. Just saying. 😉

Stay tuned for more updates, and don’t forget to check your inbox this weekend for the Winter League availability request!

Summer League 24/25 Wrap-Up & What’s Next for WPGM Hockey

Estimated reading time: 2 minutes

The Summer League 24/25 has been an exciting journey, and it’s hard to believe it’s already coming to an end this Thursday, 20 February. As our first-ever mixed league, it’s been a fantastic learning experience, and we’re grateful for all the feedback—both positive and constructive—that we’ve received. Your input will help us make the upcoming Winter League even better!

Awards Night: Thursday, 20 February

To celebrate the end of the season, we’ll be handing out awards after the final game this Thursday. Make sure to stick around for the presentation of:

  • League Award
  • Top Goal Scorer Award
  • Best Team Spirit Award
  • A Special Award

It’s a great opportunity to celebrate the hard work and camaraderie of everyone involved, so don’t miss it!

What’s Next? IPT Prep Games & Warmups

Starting 27 February, we’ll transition into IPT Prep Games. For those not participating in IPT, we’re putting together an invitational side to play in the warmup games. Here’s the schedule:

  • Thursday, 27 February: Warmup games at WPCC
  • All Mondays in March (leading up to IPT): Games at WPCC and Hartleyvale

If you’re not already part of an IPT team representing WP, keep an eye out for a player poll on the Player Comms Group. The poll will be posted by the end of Sunday, so make sure to have your say! Not in the group yet? Join here: WhatsApp Group Link.

AGM Update

Our Annual General Meeting (AGM) has been delayed as we await the results of the SAGM AGM, which will be held at IPT this year. The new date for our AGM will be after the first game of the Winter League. We’ll share more details closer to the time.

Thank You!

A huge thank you to everyone who made the Summer League such a success—players, organizers, and supporters alike. We’re looking forward to wrapping up the season in style this Thursday and diving into the next phase of preparations for IPT and beyond.

See you on the field!

Best regards,

Your commitee

Grand Masters Winter League 2024 Update

We wanted to provide you with some important updates.
League Resumption:

Starting from 8th July, we’ll resume our Grand Masters League matches. 

The regular Monday time slots at WPCC remain unchanged: 6:00 PM and 7:00 PM.


Venue Change:

Unfortunately, we no longer have access to Hartleyvale. However, we’ve secured a new venue: Wynberg Schools Astro.


Our playing time there will be Tuesdays at 7:45 PM.


Pitch and Play:

We’ve had excellent attendance at our recent pitch and play sessions, and we’re excited to announce another one scheduled for this Monday.

Thank you for your continued participation and enthusiasm. Let’s make the Grand Masters League even more exciting when we resume in July!