South African Hockey has announced a 40-player SA U21 Women’s training squad as preparations begin for the Junior Africa Cup of Nations, which is scheduled to take place in early 2027.
The continental competition will serve as Africa’s qualification event for the FIH Hockey Women’s Junior World Cup, to be staged in December 2027. The training squad marks the opening phase of South Africa’s campaign to secure its place on the global stage.
The announcement is also the first squad selected under newly appointed SA U21 Women’s head coach Stacey-Lee Gedult. The group brings together players identified through the national pathway and the 2026 U21 Inter-Provincial Tournament, with further training, assessment and preparation opportunities set to follow ahead of the continental qualifier.
Head of High Performance Reggie Smith said:
“This is an exciting first step in the journey towards the Junior Africa Cup of Nations and, ultimately, the 2027 FIH Junior World Cup. The squad reflects the depth of emerging talent in our pathway, and we are delighted to have Stacey-Lee leading the programme. Her experience, energy and understanding of the South African system will be invaluable as we build a competitive group capable of representing the country with distinction. The months ahead will be important as the players are challenged to grow, compete and earn their place in the final squad.”
Details of training camps, the Junior Africa Cup of Nations host venue and confirmed competition dates will be communicated in due course. A final tournament squad will be selected closer to the event.
SA Womens Hockey U21 – Training Squad 2026/27
