St Paul’s shines at Cape Town International Tournament
Schools hockey
Both the girls' and boys' team had very successful tournaments.
Hosted annually by Pure Travel, the Cape Town International Hockey Tournament has become a premier platform for school hockey excellence across the region and beyond. From 22 to 27 July 2025, sixty boys’ and girls’ teams battled it out for medals – bringing together top talent from South Africa, Namibia, and even the UK for a week of high-intensity competition.
St Paul’s College is gradually cementing itself as a rising powerhouse in international school hockey.
At the Cape Town International Hockey Tournament, the school’s boys and girls teams delivered exceptional performances – flying the Namibian flag high and showcasing the depth of talent emerging from the country.
With several of their players already having represented Namibia’s U16, U18 and U21 national teams, as well as top clubs in the country, St Paul’s College is steadily becoming a cornerstone of hockey development in the region. Their structured play, tactical discipline, and resilience under pressure were on full display throughout the tournament.
This tournament marks the second international silver medal this year for the girls' team, who continue to impress on the international stage. Their run included a nail-biting victory over Millfield School from England and a commanding semi-final performance against Paarl Girls High.
The boys also made a significant mark by reaching the final and earning promotion to the A Section, setting the stage for tougher competition in future editions of the event.
With continued support and exposure, St Paul’s College is fast becoming a pipeline for Namibian hockey excellence, and a team that commands international respect.
ST PAUL’S COLLEGE’S RESULTS (BOYS, B Section)
• Beat The Settlers 3-1.
• Beat HTS Drostdy 4-1.
• Beat Pinelands 4-2.
Quarter-final: beat Edgemead 1-0.
Semi-final: drew with Curro Durbanville 2–2 (St Paul’s won 5–4 in shootouts)
Final: Lost 2-1 to Bridge House.
St. Paul’s secured promotion to the A Section next year.
ST PAUL’S COLLEGE’S RESULTS (GIRLS ELITE SECTION)
• Beat Worcester Gim 10-0.
• Beat La Rochelle Girls 3-0.
• Drew 1-1 against Reddam House Constantia.
Quarter-final: drew with Millfield (England) 1-1 (St Paul’s won 2–1 in shootouts).
Semi-final: beat Paarl Girls High 2-1.
Final: lost 1–3 to Reddam House Constantia.
Girls' team head coach Nevil Gora gave credit to the influence of the leadership group on and off the pitch.
“They always help the team get ready and organised, taking ownership of the planning and the decision-making and steering any changes that might be needed. The leadership group includes Alice Rowles, Erin Moffett who is the captain, Jasmin Cartwright, Tamara Grögli and Abigail Rowles.
“Each of the team members stepped up when called upon at different times. The junior players have shown trust in the coaching and leadership structure and also did their part to bring something different. It was a team performance and our success did not just come from any one dominant star individual.”
The St. Paul’s girls’ team were Erin Moffett (captain), Alice Rowles (vice-captain), Jasmine Cartwright, Stephanie Shephard, Jade Eins, Tilly Parker, Kendyll Mouton, Tuli Nott, Amaria Hillinger, Abigail Rowles, Leila Grögli, Sienna Richards, Catherine Mvula, Tamara Grögli, Oyo Hinda and Velma Marwa. The non-travelling reserves were Karie van Schalkwyk, Inotila Kafidi and Eureka Mokaxwa.