GRAAFF-REINET NEWS - In a world that often emphasises early beginnings in competitive sports, Kenza Neill is proving that it's never too late to pursue a passion.

Kenza, deputy head girl at Union High School, moved to Graaff-Reinet from Tarkastad in 2019.

"Adjusting to a new school and environment can be daunting, especially for a young teenager. However, this experience opened the door to an unexpected adventure," says Mariëtte Burger, Media representative at this prestigious school in Graaff-Reinet.

Upon arriving at Union High, Kenza was quickly drawn into the school’s vibrant hockey culture. 

Despite having never touched a hockey stick before, the excitement around the sport sparked her interest. With encouragement from her peers and coaches, she decided to give hockey a try. 

She joined the u.16B team, stepping boldly into a new challenge.

Kenza faced a steep learning curve, but her determination shone through. 

She practised tirelessly, learning the fundamentals of the game and honing her skills. Her hard work paid off. 

As her confidence grew, she moved up to the u.16A team, continuing to impress everyone around her with her dedication and talent.

But Kenza did not stop there. 

Through perseverance and a love for the sport, she advanced to the first team, and last week, she was announced as the captain of the first hockey team.

Many believe that excellence in sports belongs only to those who start young, but Kenza's story proves otherwise. 

Trying a new sport can be daunting, but it can also lead to discovering hidden talents and passions.

So, if you've ever thought about picking up a sport, take a cue from Kenza. Embrace the opportunity to learn and grow, regardless of your age. 

You never know what you might achieve or how much joy a new sport can bring into your life. 

It is never too late to start: all you need is the courage to give it a go!

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