Resurfaced hockey turf gets a (leading) pass

26 February 2025

The City of Cape Town’s Recreation and Parks Department completed the resurfacing of the Bellville hockey turf last month. This past weekend, the first matches were played on the court when Bellville Hockey Club took to the new astro turf.

Bellville Hockey Club hosted the opening of their season on the newly resurfaced turf.
The R4,6 million project was completed at the end of January after the development of plans and technical specifications to ensure compliance with the standards set by the Western Province Hockey Federation.

To maintain safety and competition standards, the Federation recommended upgrading the turf during the 2023/2024 season, as wear and tear signalled the need for essential refurbishment. While resurfacing was under way, the club used alternative venues for practices and matches. The investment in resurfacing has now restored the facility to top-tier playing conditions, benefiting both players and supporters.

‘The City is proud to have played a role in restoring this vital sport facility and remains committed to supporting local clubs that foster community engagement, youth development, and active participation in sports and recreation. The City is committed to providing attractive, safe, accessible and sustainable spaces where residents, athletes and visitors can engage in sports and recreation activities,’ said Councillor Francine Higham, Mayoral Committee Member for Community Services and Health.

The hockey turf is located at the Bellville Sports Complex, which also has a grassed soccer field, two five-a-side soccer courts, a basketball and two netball courts.

Bellville Hockey Club is home to a thriving community of nearly 600 players and parents.

The club’s men’s and women’s sections boast five teams, respectively, with both first teams competing in the prestigious Grand Challenge - the highest league in the Western Province Hockey Union. Additionally, they field teams in the second, third, and fourth leagues, along with eight junior teams for under 11, under 13 and under 15 players.

The club’s success extends beyond local competitions.

In early 2023, Bellville’s indoor men’s team went unbeaten throughout the season, clinching the Grand Challenge Indoor League title against strong contenders such as WPCC and Central Hockey Club, a feat they would end up repeating in 2024. Notably, previous club players Keenan Horne and Taylor Dart have represented South Africa at major international tournaments, including the Olympic Games.

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Published by:
City of Cape Town, Media Office