The cream of South African women’s hockey gathered at the CSIR Conference Centre in Pretoria on Tuesday night as Minister of Sport and Recreation Fikile Mbalula paid tribute to Investec South African women’s hockey captain Marsha Marescia in recognition of her earning her 300th cap.
Marescia, who was a finalist in the SA Sports Star of the Year Awards last year, reached the milestone on January 22, this year, against Team Ghana at the FIH World League 2 in Cape Town.
Minister Mbalula lauded Marescia, saying 300 caps was no child’s play. “You are the best of the best! You are destined for greatness!” he added.
In reply, Marescia broke down a few times as she recounted experiences that shaped her career and individuals who contributed to her success over the years. “Thank you so much for this evening.
“I am really overwhelmed by the turnout! This has exceeded all my expectations,” she said.
The evening was hosted by sports presenter Vaylen Kirtley and Metro FM presenter Azania Mosaka while entertainment included comedian Tumi Morake, Idols finalist Puseletso and acclaimed artist Lira.
Earlier in the day, Marescia and some of her Investec SA women’s hockey team mates hosted a coaching clinic in Soshanguve, much to the delight of the eager youngsters.
Marescia debuted for the Proteas in 2001 at the age of 18, has captained the team since 2006 and has now made a record 305 times for the senior team.
Among her many achievements is competing at the Olympic Games on three occasions in 2004, 2008 and 2012. She represented the Proteas at the FIH World Cup in 2002, 2006 and 2010; at the Commonwealth Games in 2002, 2006 and 2010; at the FIH Champions Challenge in 2002, 2005, 2009 and 2011 and the FIH Olympic Qualifier 2012.
She was selected for the FIH World All Star team in 2007, 2009 and 2010; and was Player of the Tournament at the Investec Cup in London 2012 beating players from powerhouses such as the Netherlands, England, Australia, and Germany. Marescia was also selected Player of the Tournament at the FIH Olympic Qualifier in India 2012 and SA Hockey Player of the year in 2004, 2005 and 2007.
Marescia currently plays for SV Kampong in the Dutch premier hockey league.
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