We chat to the first team hockey captain of Grey College– Raphael Kambanis. Read the special edition for the Classic Clash between Paul Roos vs Grey College here. It’s packed with team photos, interviews, and all the action. 

Raphael Kambanis

What has pre-season been like for this team, and what has it revealed about the character, attitude and commitment of the squad? Pre-season was extremely tough. The fitness sessions were brutal, but they brought out a real sense of brotherhood among the boys. They taught us how to remain resilient during difficult moments. Even when players were cramping and our legs were sore, we kept going.

What makes this year’s first team different from previous teams, and why should supporters be excited to watch you play this season?We have faced many obstacles, yet we are still willing to give 110% for every second of every game.

What goes through your mind in the moments before you step onto the field wearing your school colours, and what does that opportunity mean to you personally? I feel extremely nervous, but I visualise myself doing positive things on the field. I remind myself that this is an incredible opportunity and think about all the historic players whom my teammates and I represent when we wear these jerseys.

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Every strong team has its own identity – how would you describe your team’s playing style, attitude and overall spirit? We have a never-say-die attitude because we believe that giving up is never an option. We may not always play the prettiest hockey, but every single player will give 100% on the turf.

What standard have you and your team set for yourselves this season, beyond simply winning matches? We have a system called ‘double faults’, which means that we cannot make two mistakes in a row. It keeps us accountable for our actions and for the standard we bring to every training session.

Which fixture stands out most on the calendar for you, and what makes that match especially important to the team? Grey High is one that really stands out. As a player, I have never beaten a Grey High side, and as a team we understand the history of the derby and the competitive nature of the fixture, especially because they are our brother school.

Who in this squad do you think could surprise people this season, and what makes them a player to watch? Neilyandro van Schalkwyk. Neily is one of the most skilful players in the country and can turn a game on its head in a matter of seconds because he creates so many opportunities for the team.

What does being part of this sport at your school teach players that goes beyond what happens on the field? It teaches players to take responsibility for their actions on and off the turf, because poor decisions anywhere can prevent you from playing the sport you love.

As captain, what kind of leader do you want to be for your team this season, and what example do you hope to set?I want to be a captain who leads not only through words, but through actions. I want to lead from the front and set a good example for my teammates.

When people watch your team play this year, what do you hope they will say about the group afterwards? I hope they will say that we are a respectful, hardworking team that never gives up.