One of the most meaningful aspects of the 2025 High Performance Program was having Gary Kirsten fully involved throughout.
His leadership created an environment where both players and coaches could thrive. Together, we collaborated on four pillars of professionalism that shaped the programme and held us accountable throughout: Technique, Mind, Discipline, and Intelligence.
As a coaching group, we reflect on this programme as an exceptionally rewarding one. The general vibe of the unit was warmly positive. Players brought these four pillars of professionalism and intention to every session, while supporting one another throughout the three-month journey. The coaches thoroughly enjoyed being part of this group and left feeling energised by the relationships formed and progress made.
Off the field, we made sure to prioritize experiences that brought the group together and gave players space to reset. Our Muizenberg beach days, padel tournament, and a morning walk through Newlands Forest are activities we all look forward to amidst the hard work. This time is important for players. Feeling supported, connected and challenged in the right ways, often exceeds our expectations of growth.
The program included over 14 competitive games, featuring fixtures against Durham University, Western Province Colts, and touring teams from the UK. A highlight was our annual Fairtree Cup, a week of competitive cricket where two GKC teams participate. It continues to be a standout feature of the programme and a fantastic opportunity for players to build camaraderie through competition.
A number of players secured opportunities for their UK and Ireland seasons, and while this is not the primary aim of the program, we are always willing to assist players on their journey in any way we can.
We would also like to acknowledge the effort and maturity shown by each player throughout. Their openness to coaching, commitment to growth, and care for the group created an environment we were proud to be part of.
The 2025 program reaffirmed what we believe to be true: when high performance is approached with purpose, clarity and enjoyment, the results take care of themselves.
We look forward to welcoming the next cohort in 2026.
