Michael Baker, a renowned South African hockey coach, will join Paul Roos Gymnasium as head of hockey and head coach of the school’s under-19A team next year.
His experience extends beyond some of the top KwaZulu-Natal hockey schools to include selector for the SA men’s under-21 team, conditioner for the SA under-17 boys’ team, head of the KZN High Performance Programme and coach of the KZN under-18 team.
“Mr Baker’s wealth of experience not only in the top boys’ school set-up, but also as part of the senior national programme makes him the right candidate. His passion and vision will ensure that PRG’s hockey programme remains one of the best in the country,” said PRG rector André van Staden
His experience will aid him in his responsibility to establish and expand on the existing norms and standards of PRG’s hockey programme. Baker is also tasked with implementing the necessary coaching structures that will allow all players, including those with the potential to play at national level, to develop their skills optimally.
He is an avid ultra trail runner, who is excited to explore the terrain around Stellenbosch.
The school is in the process of finalising a third astro-turf as part of the existing Stellenbosch University complex, which will ensure Stellenbosch becomes a hockey hub. The extra time this will allow for coaches and players on the field will ensure the PRG players have the opportunity to hone their skills throughout the year and enjoy access to a high-class facility.
