Young Kimberley hockey star prepares for France adventure

At just 13 years old, Kimberley Junior School learner Aedon Mae Daries is already living the kind of dream many young athletes only hope for. The Grade 7 pupil, who has captained both the Northern Cape Under-12 and Under-13 hockey teams, is preparing to tour France later this year with Southern Cape Sports Tours.

When Aedon first heard the news, she could hardly believe it. “I thought my mother was joking when she told me,” she laughs. “It only felt real once Mr Nico Bezuidenhout from Southern Cape Sports Tours sent the confirmation.

"That’s when I realised it was really happening.”

A natural leader on the field

Leadership has been a big part of Aedon’s hockey journey. Wearing the captain’s armband for the provincial sides taught her how to combine strategy and motivation, and more. “It was a real privilege,” she says. “I realised that a true leader must also listen to those whom they are leading. That’s how you build a strong team and great camaraderie.”

Her hockey journey has already taken her to tournaments in Pietermaritzburg and Johannesburg, where she faced tough competition. Instead of being discouraged, Aedon used those experiences as motivation. “I learnt to turn my loss into a lesson,” she explains.

“Challenge is a good thing – it made me grow, reach for the stars and set higher standards for myself.”

Inspired by family and heroes

Much of Aedon’s drive comes from her family, especially her grandmother in Cape Town, who always reminded her of God’s plan for her life. “She told me to dream big, work hard, and believe in myself. That’s what kept me going,” Aedon says.

Her family’s support has been a constant source of encouragement. “Every game, they’re there. Every tournament, they’re there. Every practice, they’re there! Hearing their voices on the field is a privilege, and I’m so grateful for them.”

Aedon has also been inspired by meeting South African hockey stars like Mustapha Cassiem, Malika Hamza, Jamie Susan, Dalpiarro Langford and AJ Spieringshoek. She dreams of following in their footsteps. “For my career day presentation, I chose to become a South African hockey player. That is my dream.”

Beyond the sport

For Aedon, hockey is more than just competition. She loves the friendships, the travel, and the chance to meet new people. Balancing her schoolwork with sport is also something she takes seriously. “I believe in a balanced life. To be academically strong, you also need to play sport to unwind.

"That’s why I make time for both.”

As the tour to France approaches, her excitement is growing. “I can’t wait to see the Eiffel Tower in person, try new pastries, meet new people, and learn a few French words,” she says with a smile.

Advice for young dreamers

Aedon knows that success does not come without setbacks. Her advice to other young players is clear: “You will have bumpy roads and people who will discourage you and tell you that you can’t do it. But the best thing you can do is get up stronger than ever and prove them wrong. Your dream doesn’t come on a silver platter.

"You must be determined and motivated, work hard and give your all. That’s how you achieve success.”

With her determination, leadership, and the unwavering support of her family, Aedon Mae Daries is proving that even at 13, dreams can start taking shape, and sometimes, those dreams lead all the way to the international stage.