Wild Hockey: A Social Tournament with a Roaring Conscience
Hockey, as a sport, has always been known for its intensity, camaraderie, and the sheer adrenaline rush it provides to players and fans alike. But what if we told you that there's a version of hockey that not only celebrates the love for the game but also has a unique twist that touches the heart and soul? Enter Wild Hockey, a 5-a-side social hockey tournament hosted by Rise Sport Academies that is not just about scoring goals but also about scoring a win for wildlife conservation, particularly the endangered rhino population in Kwa-Zulu Natal, South Africa.
The Name "Wild Hockey"
The name "Wild Hockey" is symbolic of a deeper mission. While the game takes center stage, the name suggests that it is about raising awareness and funds for wildlife conservation. It's not just about playing hockey but also playing a part in the conservation of our planet's magnificent creatures. In fact, 10% of the entrance fees from the tournament are donated toward saving rhinos. This unique blend of sports and environmental advocacy makes Wild Hockey a truly one-of-a-kind event.
Team Spirit with a Twist
Wild Hockey isn't your ordinary hockey tournament. Each participating team is required to embrace the spirit of the wild by taking on the name of a wildlife species and dressing up accordingly. This not only adds a vibrant and fun element to the game but also reinforces the connection between the players and the animal they represent. Teams go all out, donning costumes and accessories that are suggestive of their chosen animal. This creative approach adds a fantastic layer of enjoyment to the event and showcases the commitment of the participants to the cause.
Prizes with a Purpose
At the end of the tournament, Wild Hockey awards prizes to teams that excel in the game as well as in their conservation efforts. While there are trophies for winners on the field, the real victory is in contributing to wildlife conservation. The prizes serve as a recognition of the teams' dedication to the cause and their outstanding display of team spirit and creativity.
Partnership with Eden Village
Wild Hockey doesn't just happen in isolation; it thrives within a broader context of community and education. The event is hosted in partnership with Eden Village, an established campus that caters to the educational and developmental needs of children. Nestled within two hectares of lush natural surroundings, Eden Village exudes peace and tranquility, providing the perfect backdrop for a tournament that celebrates the wild.
Eden Village hosts several world-class institutions on its campus, emphasizing education and personal growth from the age of 12 months to 13 years (Grade 7). The emphasis on learning and development aligns seamlessly with the core ethos of Wild Hockey – the preservation and growth of our natural world.
Not Just a Tournament, But a Lifestyle
Beyond the game, Wild Hockey is part of a larger ecosystem that also caters to the needs of parents and sports enthusiasts. Eden Village offers various sports, food, and wellness offerings that complement the educational theme and make it a holistic experience. This broader approach makes Wild Hockey more than just a tournament; it's a lifestyle that combines the love for sports, the joy of creativity, and a commitment to wildlife conservation.
Wild Hockey isn't just about hitting the ball into the goal; it's about hitting the mark in the conservation of our planet's most magnificent creatures. This unique blend of sports, creativity, and environmental advocacy is a testament to the power of sports in fostering a sense of responsibility towards our environment. The next time you see a team dressed as cheetahs or lions, remember that Wild Hockey is a roaring celebration of life in all its forms, on and off the field. It's a reminder that in the game of life, we all play for the same team – Team Earth.