News
Last week Mill Hill School Enterprises had the pleasure of hosting the South African (SA) Men’s Hockey Team.
The team and their coaches stayed in Collinson House and used our sports facilities to help them train for the 2022 Commonwealth Games. It was incredible to see elite athletes in our gym and on the AstroTurf. This is a testament to our outstanding facilities and we look forward to seeing them compete in the Games!
We interviewed four members of the team to learn more about their careers and aspirations. Here is what striker Dayaan Cassiem had to say!
What position do you play in the team?
I am a striker for the South African Men’s Hockey team. As one of the offensive players, my main role is to score goals and stay on the attacking end of the pitch.
How did you get into hockey and how long have you been playing?
I started playing hockey at the age of five. My dad thoroughly enjoyed hockey and took me to a training session. I fell in love with the sport and the rest is history!
Could you tell us about your training regime?
Our training regime has been very strong. The facilities at Mill Hill School are fantastic and this has massively helped us. The AstroTurf is incredible and it’s great to play in British weather conditions. Without Mill Hill School we would have been training in Cape Town. It is currently winter there, so it would have been quite a shock to suddenly play in the hot weather during the Commonwealth Games.
What do you do in your spare time?
I currently play for Gladbacher Hockey and Tennis Club in Germany. When I return home, I love spending time with my loved ones and supporting my local hockey team.
Is this your first visit to the UK and how are you finding London?
This is my first time in the UK and I think it is a really cool place! There is a real buzz around London and the people are very friendly. Everyone at Mill Hill School has been really welcoming – especially when we eat our meals in the dining hall!
What would you like to achieve for your team?
Our team did well at the Olympics and I was happy with our performance. I would like to make my team and South Africa proud in the Commonwealth Games. Overall I want to create history!
What is your dream?
My dream is to win every game, one game at a time. It would be wonderful to leave the Commonwealth Games with a medal.
Do you have any advice for our pupils, especially those who may want to go into professional sports?
The school has wonderful facilities and this should inspire pupils to succeed. Mill Hill School pupils clearly work hard; I would advise them to keep going because you can achieve your dreams!
