Recently, three personnel from the Royal Gibraltar Regiment (RG) returned from an intensive and beneficial hockey training camp held in South Africa. The camp was a crucial part of their preparation for the highly anticipated inter-corps hockey championships taking place in May. 

Warrant Officer Class 2 (WO2) Malcolm Head, Warrant Officer Class 2 (WO2) Ivan Massetti, and Lance Corporal (LCpl) Byron Ellis joined forces with thirteen fellow hockey players from various Infantry cap badges and two members of the Royal Signals for the ten-day training programme.

In a notable change from the usual Infantry Training Camps traditionally held in Gibraltar, this year offered the athletes a valuable opportunity to train in the diverse and challenging environment of South Africa.

Throughout the ten days training camp, there was a total of six training sessions and four matches. These matches provided invaluable experience against strong opposition:

• Match 1: vs. Maties Hockey Club – Lost 4-1
• Match 2: vs. Bellville Hockey Club (featuring several players from their International Indoor selection team) – Lost 9-2
• Match 3: vs. Constantia Berg Hockey Club – Lost 4-1
• Match 4: vs. Somerset Hockey Club – Lost 4-3

Beyond the intensive hockey schedule, the team also dedicated a day to giving back to the local community. They volunteered with a group called Inspire Children and Youth, actively participating in prepping land for farming, making a notable difference to the lives of underprivileged children.

WO2 Head reflected on the trip, stating, “It was an amazing experience. The standard of hockey was extremely high, as evidenced by the challenging matches, and the training facilities were exceptional. It was heart-warming to help the underprivileged children through our work with Inspire Children and Youth.”

Adding to the enriching experience, the personnel also had the opportunity to explore the stunning natural beauty of the Southern Cape Peninsula and visit the iconic Table Mountain, providing a welcome respite from their demanding training schedule.

The training camp was thoroughly enjoyed by all participants, who expressed a strong desire to repeat the experience in the future. The skills and camaraderie gained in South Africa will undoubtedly prove invaluable in preparation for future competitions.