Agility, quick reflexes, and a sharp mind are key traits of a standout hockey goalkeeper, and Lilly-Anne Theron of TuksHockey, excels in all of these areas. Her stellar performances at the 2024 USSA Hockey Championships proved her ability to step up under pressure, blocking not just shots, but anticipating them, helping the TuksHockey women's team to win the title. Her efforts earned her the Best Goalkeeper of the Tournament award. Most recently, she displayed her skills again playing for the South African U-21 team at the Interprovincial Tournament in Johannesburg.

A BSportSci student, Theron is passionate about the unique challenges that come with being a goalkeeper. "Hockey is the ultimate game for me," she says. "I’ve tried many sports, but hockey’s physicality and demands on fitness make it stand out. Some think being a keeper is dangerous, but to me, it's thrilling."

Theron's journey began when she watched her sister's hockey practice. Seeing a group of goalkeepers diving and sliding to stop the ball inspired her to take on the challenge. By Grade Five, when the call came for a volunteer to play goalkeeper, her hand shot up immediately.

In her style of play, Theron explains, "I stay on my feet and prefer not to dive unnecessarily. I’m vocal on the field, guiding my defence because, as a keeper, I see the entire game unfolding. My role is to read the game and help my teammates adjust accordingly."

When asked about the pressure of penalty shootouts, Theron shares, "It can be stressful, but I focus on stalling the player. I pray for calmness and try to read the opponent’s skills. Knowing the players helps me anticipate their moves."

Theron’s love for the game and her tactical approach make her an invaluable asset to TuksHockey, and her best is surely yet to come.