Former players of the Somerset West Hockey Club gathered for a delightful reunion on Sunday 8 December at Rae Gordon’s residence in Somerset West. This special event brought together approximately 30 to 35 past members, who enjoyed reminiscing about the cherished moments and sharing stories celebrating their passion for the sport. Anecdotes on old matches, memorable incidents on the field and adventurous travels to games, in vehicles such as bakkies, kombis and lorries, were exchanged. Among the highlights of the gathering, Mercia Smith (née Katts) shared insights into the club’s earlier history, while Sandra Rhoda (née Roos) recounted stories and events from its later years. Mercia was noted as an outstanding player in her era. The reunion also honoured those who achieved their own Western Province colours: Loretta Darius and Daphne Rhoda in 1956, and during the ’70s and ’80s, players included Gordon, Hadel Petersen (Smith), Astrid de Waal (Smith), Rhoda, Mylene Smith, and Jennifer Swartz. Pictured (back, from left) are Evelyn Mehl, Carreen Abels, Astrid de Waal, Barbara Josephs, Ivy Seale, Mercia Smith, Bettina Beeka, Penelope Saunders, Cecelia Jeptha, Hadel Petersen, Rae Gordon, Elizabeth Cornelissen, Barbara Petersen, Lilian S


Former players who were part of the local club from 1956 to the 1970’s. They are (back, from left) Evelyn Mehl, Bernice Adams, Ivy Seale, Astrid de Waal, Lorraine Arendse, Hadel Petersen, Elizabeth Cornelissen, Barbara Joseph, Barbara Petersen, Veronica Patience and Valerie Swartz; (seated, in front) Carreen Abels, Mavis Gordon, Mercia Smith, Rae Gordon and Wendy De Mink.

Both young and old celebrated over 30 years of enjoying the game of hockey.

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