The Tuks women's hockey team completed a hattrick on Friday in Stellenbosch by beating Pukke 3-2 in the final of the USSA Tournament. 

It was clear from day one that the team was on a mission when they beat UCT 2-0. Up to the final Tuks did not concede one goal while scoring eight goals. 

As Tuks and Pukke played to a 0-0 draw during their pool game encounter, it was no surprise the final turned out to be a humdinger. 

Inky Zondi attributes his team's doggedness to the lessons learned from the Varsity hockey semi-final against Maties. Tuks lost the encounter but impressed with their never say die attitude during the last 15 minutes of the game. One of the team's goals during USSA's was never to be in a situation where they needed to play catchup again.

As usual, Zondi was hesitant to single out individuals for their brilliance, but he could not help himself but praise Megan Anderson, the captain. 

"Megan lead by example from the very first minute and never relented. Through her work ethic, she set up countless scoring opportunities in every game. Without a doubt, she will be remembered as one of the best to have played for Tuks."

Zondi also praised Warren Sangster who stood in for him while he was involved assisting the national women's hockey team. 

"Warren did a sterling job. I think we have earned the right to celebrate winning the USSA Tournament for the third time. Especially Megan, Marizen (Marais) and Thandokazi (Chithi) who played every final." 

The Tuks men's hockey team finished third at USSA's beating UJ in the playoffs.

The coach, Sigz Ntuli, admits finishing third was never their goal, but for now, he is satisfied. 

"We fielded a very young team. Eight of the players represented Tuks for the first time. They acquitted themselves well. There were moments during games where we lacked experience.

"What excited me is how we played against Wits the eventual winners. We dominated every facet. Unfortunately, in the end, the game had to be decided on a shoot-out. 

"I am looking forward to the next three years as I am confident the team is going to continue to improve with each game. I can't wait for the new recruits from next year as they will undoubtedly boost our play on the attack."