Fish Hoek High School’s 1st team girls’ soccer team recently claimed first place at the Curro Hermanus 11-a-side Football Tournament, showcasing skill, determination and teamwork throughout the competition.
Grade 10 learner Leah Liebenberg, who played a key role in the side’s success, trained harder before the tournament, knowing she needed to perform at her best for the team and herself.
Defensive drive
The coach put the squad through conditioning sessions and under-pressure ball work to prepare them.
Leah’s passion for soccer began in Grade 7 when her mother told her she could finally join a club and after the first training session she knew she would love the sport.
She admires Liverpool player Virgil van Dijk for the way he carries himself during matches, remaining calm and using his intelligence and strength.
Leah plays full back, operating at right back, left back or centre back.
Captain commands
Leading by example, captain Leah Daniels’ passion for soccer began at 10 years old.
She prepared for the tournament by practising regularly with her team, working on passing, shooting, dribbling and fitness.
The squad also played practice matches to sharpen their teamwork.
Daniels’ favourite player is Lauren James, admired for her skill and confidence on the field.
She plays as a striker, where she focuses on creating chances and scoring goals.
Midfield maestro Kihanna Booysen, who controlled the centre of the park, trained almost every day, doing fitness exercises, practising passing and dribbling, and playing practice matches.
Winning recipe
She also focused on eating healthily and getting enough rest.
Her passion started at around age 6, watching soccer with family and playing with friends after school.
Kihanna admires Michael Olise for his hard work, determination and goal-scoring ability.
She plays as a midfielder, loving the position because she can read the game and deliver through-balls to the wingers.
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