Questa sponsored the AKS hockey tour, which saw more than 30 young hockey players visit South Africa this summer.

The players competed in a hockey tournament and enjoyed a range of experiences designed to broaden the students’ horizons and deepen their understanding of the world.

Questa sponsored the team’s jackets and track pants. The tour included a series of training sessions, a training game and the opportunity for the two AKS Lytham teams to compete in the Cape Town International Hockey Tournament 2024.

Both teams came up against strong South African opposition in the group stages of the tournament, playing some excellent hockey and improving game on game. The Tournament team finished with two wins. AKS defeated Worcester Gymnasium 2 – 1 in the first game, then, leaving their best to last, secured a 3 – 1 win in their last game against Hoerskool, Belville.

The Evolve team also finished on a high with a nailbiting ‘sudden death’ penalty shuffle win after the game against Grantleigh finished as a draw.

Anthony Hoskisson from Questa said: “We are delighted to support the AKS Lytham hockey team on this incredible journey. Sponsoring their tour kit is just a small way for us to contribute to their development and the unforgettable experiences they will gain.”

The trip also featured a variety of educational and cultural experiences:

• A visit to the Lesedi Cultural Village
• A guided Langa Township tour, where students had a guided walking tour through the streets 
• Participation in the TAG community programme, where the girls took part in sporting games alongside the local school children, all having fun and making new friends.
• A game reserve visit saw students experience four of the ‘Big Five’ (lions, leopards, elephants, rhinoceroses, and buffaloes) close up during two game drives.
• Close encounters with wildlife like crocodiles and snakes.
• Finally, a trip to the Cape of Good Hope, taking in Seal Island and the penguins at Boulders Bay.
• A whale-watching grand finale at Hermanus.

Rachel Mason, Head of Hockey at AKS Lytham, said: “We’re incredibly grateful to Questa for sponsoring our tour kit. I’m sure you’ll agree, the team looked resplendent and the girls loved their kit. Questa’s support made a real difference to our experience in South Africa, both on and off the field.”

The AKS Lytham team’s South African tour highlighted the significance of combining sports with cultural education, offering a comprehensive experience beyond the hockey field.

Anthony added: “Trips like this are invaluable for young athletes. They not only enhance their sporting skills but also provide them with cultural insights and memories that will last a lifetime. We were proud to  play our part in a successful tour.”