Wałcz, Poland – June 2025
South Africa’s women’s hockey team is preparing to represent the nation at the first-ever FIH Hockey Women’s Nations Cup 2, taking place from 16 to 22 June 2025 in Wałcz, Poland. This newly launched tournament, introduced by the International Hockey Federation (FIH), offers a meaningful platform for national teams outside the top tiers of the Pro League and the existing Nations Cup to compete at an international level. The winner will secure promotion to the FIH Nations Cup, bringing them closer to the sport’s premier competitions.
The South African Hockey Association recently named a 20-player squad for the tournament, with a blend of senior players and emerging talent. The group includes several athletes with Olympic experience from Paris 2024, such as Hannah Pearce, Onthatile Zulu, Ntsopa Mokoena, Edith Molikoe, and Ongeziwe Mali. These players bring valuable international exposure and composure to the side.
Veteran midfielder Quanita Bobbs, with 180 caps, adds significant experience to the squad, while newcomers like Daniella de Oliveira, Shanna Mendonca, and Cerian Fourie will be looking to make their mark on debut. Also included are players who featured in the recent FIH Indoor World Cup, such as Tegan Fourie and Cailynn Den Bakker, adding depth and versatility to the squad.
Head Coach Inky Zondi will lead the team, with the tournament viewed as an important development step in South Africa’s ongoing progress on the international stage.
South Africa’s Pool Fixtures:
- 16 June: South Africa vs. Uruguay – 16:00
- 17 June: South Africa vs. Malaysia – 16:00
- 19 June: South Africa vs. Poland – 18:00
- 21 June: Semi-Finals
22 June: Final
The tournament will feature eight teams: South Africa, Poland, Italy, France, Malaysia, Uruguay, Wales, and Czechia. All participating nations will be aiming to top the standings and secure the single promotion spot.
This event also marks a milestone for the host city, Wałcz, as it stages its first FIH-sanctioned event. Known for its sporting facilities and natural surroundings, the city is expected to provide a fitting backdrop for a tournament focused on growth and opportunity. The Polish Hockey Association sees this as a valuable step in the development of women’s hockey in the region.
“We are extremely pleased with the confidence the world federation has placed in us,” said Rafał Grotwski, President of the Polish Hockey Association. “This aligns well with our investment in the growth of women’s hockey in Poland and gives us the chance to promote the sport on home soil.”
FIH President Tayyab Ikram added, “This is a proud moment for FIH, as it continues to expand the horizons of hockey globally. Wałcz is well-positioned to deliver a successful event, and I’m confident it will offer a positive experience for players and fans alike.”
As the South African team heads to Poland, the Nations Cup 2 presents both a competitive challenge and an opportunity for progress. With a balanced mix of experience and potential, the squad is focused on delivering a strong performance in a tournament that aims to strengthen the global hockey landscape.
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