ABOUT US

Fundamentals First Hockey Academy was launched in 2025 and is hosted at St Stithians College. 

The clinic focuses on mastering fundamental skills in hockey as they form the basis for all advanced techniques and strategies. A strong foundation in the basics allows players to control the ball, work effectively with teammates, and adapt quickly to the fast pace of the game.

  • Builds a solid foundation:

Without mastering the basics like dribbling and passing, players will struggle with more advanced skills. A skilled player can execute complex moves, but a great one relies on fundamental skills to adapt to any situation.

  • Boosts player confidence and reduces injuries: 

Proper technique, taught through fundamental training, not only increases a player’s confidence but also lowers the risk of injury.

  • Ensures smooth, cohesive gameplay: 

Accurate passing and clean receiving are what keep a game flowing. Poor execution of these skills can lead to turnovers and disrupt the team’s rhythm.

  • Improves on-field awareness:

A player with strong fundamentals can operate more instinctively with the ball, allowing them to focus on positioning, teammates, and opponents instead of their stick.

MEET THE TEAM

Coach: Warren Tanner-Ellis

Warren comes from a true hockey family, with a deep connection to the sport both on and off the field. Having played for many years across provincial and club teams, Warren brings valuable experience and a lifelong love for the game to every coaching and leadership role. As the Director of Hockey at St Stithians College, Warren plays a key role in driving the school’s hockey vision and fostering excellence across all age groups. Both his son and daughter have proudly represented the St Stithians Boys’ and Girls’ College 1st Teams, as well as provincial and national teams, continuing the family’s strong hockey legacy. Driven by a genuine passion for coaching and instilling a love for the game, Warren is dedicated to developing players who not only perform on the field but also grow in character and confidence through hockey.

Coach: Marne van Aarde

Marne has a love for hockey and a passion for working with young athletes. From an early age, coaching has been her calling, and she dedicates as much time as possible to developing players of all ages and levels — from boys and girls to junior and senior teams. She currently plays in the South Gauteng Premier League for the Crusaders A Ladies side and has proudly represented her province at a competitive level. Marne serves as the South Gauteng U16 Girls Coach and coaches several 5s teams. At St Stithians Girls’ College, she holds the position of MIC of Hockey, and she has led the JHL Central Samurais, with whom she has achieved great success — including two gold medal victories.

Coach: Pat Owgan

Pat is an accomplished hockey coach with a proven track record of success across multiple levels of the game. He was previously the Head Coach of the Wanderers Men’s First Team, leading them to League Champions in 2021 and 2023. Pat now works at St Stithians College, where he coaches both the Boys’ 1st Team and the Boys’ Prep 1st Team, continuing to develop young talent within the school’s strong hockey program. He is also the South Gauteng U16A Boys Coach and a key figure in the Junior Hockey League (JHL) setup — serving as Senior Coach of the Samurais, who claimed Gold in 2024, and coaching the U18 Samurais, who earned Silver in 2023 and Bronze in 2024. In addition, he leads the Crusaders Hockey Club Men’s First Team, who secured a 5th-place finish in the Premier League.

Administrator: Gill Pringle

With over 10 years of experience in club hockey administration, Gill Pringle brings a wealth of knowledge and organisation to her role. Currently serving as the Hockey Administrator at St Stithians College and the Crusaders Hockey Club, Gill is passionate about creating a smooth, efficient, and enjoyable experience for all players and members.
Driven by a love for the game and a commitment to excellence, Gill strives to provide an organised and “admin-free” hockey environment, allowing coaches, players and parents to focus on what matters most — hockey.