Futures Academy Online High School is beaming with pride as one of our own, Ntsopa Mokoena, a Grade 12 learner, represents South Africa in field hockey at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games. Ntsopa’s journey from a passionate young athlete in Bethlehem to the global stage of the Olympics is nothing short of inspirational.
Rising Star in Field Hockey
Ntsopa Mokoena, born on August 17, 2004, began her hockey journey at Bethlehem Voortrekker Hoërskool before making her mark on the national scene. She made her senior national team debut during a tour to Spain in December 2022, where she impressed with her skills and determination. Her performance in the test series against Italy, where she scored her first international goal, set the tone for her budding career.
Achievements and Olympic Journey
In 2023, Ntsopa represented South Africa at the Junior Africa Cup in Egypt, where the team clinched the gold medal, further solidifying her place as a key player in South African hockey. She also participated in the All Africa Games in March 2024 and numerous other international series leading up to the Paris 2024 Olympics. Her dedication and talent earned her a spot in the senior national team for the Paris 2024 Olympics. Ntsopa will be playing as a forward, bringing her agility and scoring prowess to the South African squad.
SA Hockey: The Best in Africa
The South African women’s hockey team, coached by Giles Bonnet, is the only team from Africa competing in the Paris 2024 Olympics. This achievement underscores their status as the best team on the continent, having secured their spot by winning the African Hockey Road to Paris 2024 games. Their participation highlights the strength and competitiveness of South African hockey on the global stage.
Olympic Fixtures and Expectations
The South African women’s hockey team is set to compete in Pool B. Their Olympic campaign kicks off with a challenging match against Australia on July 28, 2024. This will be followed by games against Argentina, Great Britain, Spain, and the United States. The team, featuring a blend of experienced players and rising stars like Ntsopa, is poised to make a significant impact.
Futures Academy: Encouraging Holistic Development
Futures Academy was established to encourage students to pursue their interests beyond the classroom. Ntsopa Mokoena embodies this vision perfectly, demonstrating that success is not confined to academic achievements alone. At Futures Academy, we believe in holistic development, recognizing and celebrating the diverse talents and accomplishments of our students, whether in sports, arts, or other extracurricular activities. Ntsopa’s journey to the Olympics is a testament to the supportive and nurturing environment that Futures Academy strives to provide for all its learners.
A Role Model for Aspiring Athletes
Ntsopa’s journey is a testament to hard work, perseverance, and the support of a nurturing educational environment. Her story is not only a source of pride for our school but also an inspiration for young athletes everywhere. We celebrate her achievements and look forward to cheering her on as she takes on the world’s best in Paris.
Join us in supporting Ntsopa Mokoena and the South African women’s hockey team as they strive for excellence at the Olympics. The fixtures can be viewed on SABC+ and SuperSport.
Go Team South Africa!