Top 10 Hockey Clubs in Johannesburg (2025)

Posted on Author Dlamini Blessing

Johannesburg, South Africa’s bustling metropolis, is a hub for field hockey enthusiasts, offering a vibrant scene for players of all ages and skill levels. With a rich sporting culture and a favorable climate for year-round play, the city hosts a variety of hockey clubs that cater to everyone from beginners to elite athletes. These clubs provide top-notch facilities, professional coaching, and a strong sense of community, making them ideal for both competitive players and those looking for social, fun games. This guide highlights the top 10 hockey clubs in Johannesburg for 2025, selected based on their facilities, coaching quality, community engagement, and accessibility. Whether you’re seeking to join a competitive league or enjoy casual matches, this list will help you find the perfect club to suit your needs, backed by insights from local players and recent club updates.

Top 10 Hockey Clubs in Johannesburg

1. Wanderers Hockey Club

Location: Illovo, Johannesburg
Highlights: Wanderers Hockey Club, based at the iconic Wanderers Club, is one of Johannesburg’s most prestigious hockey destinations. With two world-class astroturf pitches, the club hosts competitive teams in the Gauteng Hockey League and offers programs for juniors, seniors, and social players. Known for its professional coaching staff and vibrant community, Wanderers has produced national players and hosts regular tournaments. The clubhouse provides excellent amenities, including dining and social spaces.
Membership & Access: Open to new members with trials held annually. Fees range from R2,000–R4,000 per season, depending on the team level. Visitors can join social games with prior arrangement.
Why It Stands Out: Its top-tier facilities and history of nurturing talent make it a premier choice. Pro Tip: Attend their pre-season trials in February for a chance to join a competitive squad.

2. Old Edwardians Hockey Club

Location: Houghton, Johannesburg
Highlights: Established over a century ago, Old Edwardians (Eds) is renowned for its strong hockey program and welcoming atmosphere. The club features a high-quality astroturf pitch and offers teams for men, women, and juniors competing in Gauteng leagues. Eds emphasizes player development with experienced coaches and regular clinics. Their social events, like post-match braais, foster a tight-knit community.
Membership & Access: New members are welcome; annual fees start at R2,500. Contact the club for trial sessions. Social hockey is available for casual players.
Why It Stands Out: Its blend of tradition, quality coaching, and community spirit appeals to all players. Pro Tip: Join their junior program for kids to build skills early.

3. Beaulieu Hockey Club

Location: Kyalami, Johannesburg
Highlights: Situated in the scenic Kyalami area, Beaulieu Hockey Club is known for its family-friendly environment and excellent facilities, including a well-maintained astroturf pitch. The club caters to juniors, seniors, and mixed social teams, with a strong focus on youth development. Beaulieu’s coaching staff includes former provincial players, ensuring high-quality training.
Membership & Access: Open to all skill levels; membership fees range from R1,800–R3,500. Social hockey nights are open to non-members with a small fee.
Why It Stands Out: Its accessible location and emphasis on junior programs make it ideal for families. Pro Tip: Check their website for summer camp schedules for young players.

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4. University of Johannesburg Hockey Club

Location: Auckland Park, Johannesburg
Highlights: The UJ Hockey Club is a powerhouse in university and club hockey, boasting two astroturf pitches and a reputation for producing national-level talent. Affiliated with the University of Johannesburg, it offers competitive teams for students and non-students, with professional coaching and access to sports science facilities. The club competes in national varsity tournaments and Gauteng leagues.
Membership & Access: Open to non-students; fees start at R2,000. Contact the club for trial information.
Why It Stands Out: Its connection to UJ’s sports programs ensures top-tier training and facilities. Pro Tip: Attend their open days in January to explore membership options.

5. Crusaders Hockey Club

Location: Randburg, Johannesburg
Highlights: Crusaders is a community-focused club with a welcoming vibe and a quality astroturf pitch. Known for its inclusive approach, the club offers teams for all ages and skill levels, from juniors to masters. Their coaching emphasizes skill development and teamwork, making it a great choice for players looking to improve. Social hockey nights are a highlight for casual players.
Membership & Access: Membership fees range from R1,500–R3,000. Non-members can join social games for a small fee.
Why It Stands Out: Its affordability and inclusive ethos make it accessible to everyone. Pro Tip: Join their mixed social hockey evenings for a fun, low-pressure game.

6. Pirates Hockey Club

Location: Greenside, Johannesburg
Highlights: Pirates Hockey Club, part of the historic Pirates Sports Club, offers a vibrant hockey scene with a well-maintained astroturf pitch. The club fields competitive men’s, women’s, and junior teams in Gauteng leagues and hosts regular social tournaments. Known for its lively atmosphere, Pirates is a favorite for players who enjoy a balance of competition and camaraderie.
Membership & Access: New members are welcome; fees start at R2,000. Social hockey is open to visitors with prior booking.
Why It Stands Out: Its central location and social vibe make it a go-to for urban players. Pro Tip: Check their social media for upcoming social tournaments.

7. Riverside Hockey Club

Location: Bryanston, Johannesburg
Highlights: Riverside is a growing club with a modern astroturf pitch and a focus on youth and community hockey. The club offers programs for beginners, juniors, and competitive players, with coaching tailored to different skill levels. Their scenic location along the Sand River adds to the appeal, and the clubhouse is perfect for post-match socializing.
Membership & Access: Fees range from R1,800–R3,200. Non-members can join social sessions with a small fee.
Why It Stands Out: Its scenic setting and beginner-friendly programs are ideal for new players. Pro Tip: Enroll kids in their holiday clinics for fun, skill-building sessions.

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8. Khosa Hockey Club

Location: Soweto, Johannesburg
Highlights: Khosa Hockey Club is a trailblazer in bringing field hockey to Soweto, offering affordable access to the sport. With a community-driven mission, the club provides coaching and equipment to young players, many of whom compete in provincial leagues. Their astroturf pitch is a hub for local talent, and the club’s outreach programs inspire the next generation.
Membership & Access: Membership is affordable, starting at R1,000. Contact the club for community program details.
Why It Stands Out: Its commitment to accessibility and youth development sets it apart. Pro Tip: Support their community initiatives by attending fundraising matches.

9. Sandton Hockey Club

Location: Sandton, Johannesburg
Highlights: Located in the heart of Johannesburg’s business district, Sandton Hockey Club offers a high-quality astroturf pitch and competitive teams in the Gauteng Hockey League. The club caters to juniors, seniors, and corporate teams, with professional coaching and modern facilities. Its central location makes it convenient for urban professionals.
Membership & Access: Fees range from R2,500–R4,000. Social hockey is available for non-members.
Why It Stands Out: Its prime location and corporate team options make it unique. Pro Tip: Join their corporate leagues for networking through sport.

10. Benoni Northerns Hockey Club

Location: Benoni, Johannesburg
Highlights: Benoni Northerns, located on Johannesburg’s East Rand, is known for its welcoming community and quality astroturf pitch. The club offers teams for all ages, with a strong focus on junior development and competitive play. Their coaching staff includes experienced players, and the club hosts regular social events to build camaraderie.
Membership & Access: Fees start at R1,500. Non-members can join social games with prior arrangement.
Why It Stands Out: Its affordability and community focus make it a great choice for East Rand residents. Pro Tip: Attend their junior clinics to kickstart young players’ skills.

Why Johannesburg’s Hockey Clubs Are Exceptional

Johannesburg’s hockey clubs stand out for their diversity, offering options for competitive players, beginners, and families. The city’s highveld climate ensures year-round play on astroturf pitches, which are maintained to international standards. Clubs like Wanderers and UJ have a history of producing national players, while others like Khosa focus on community upliftment. Most clubs balance competitive leagues with social hockey, making the sport accessible to all. Their facilities, including modern pitches and clubhouses, rival those in larger hockey nations, and affordable membership fees (R1,000–R4,000) make Johannesburg a cost-effective destination for players.

Choosing the Right Hockey Club in Johannesburg

When selecting a club, consider your skill level, location, and goals. Beginners might prefer Riverside or Crusaders for their inclusive programs, while competitive players can aim for Wanderers or UJ. Check membership fees and trial opportunities, as most clubs host open days or pre-season trials. For families, Beaulieu and Benoni Northerns offer strong junior programs. Ensure the club’s location aligns with your commute, as Johannesburg’s traffic can be a factor. Social players should look for clubs with mixed or social hockey nights, like Pirates or Sandton.

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Tips for Joining a Hockey Club in Johannesburg

  • Attend Trials: Most clubs, like Wanderers and Old Edwardians, hold trials in January or February. Contact them early to secure a spot.

  • Check Fees: Membership fees vary (R1,000–R4,000), so confirm costs and what’s included, like coaching or equipment.

  • Explore Social Hockey: Non-members can join social games at clubs like Crusaders or Pirates for a low-pressure introduction.

  • Bring Your Gear: While some clubs provide equipment, owning a quality stick and shin guards enhances your experience.

  • Engage with the Community: Attend social events or braais to connect with teammates and build lasting friendships.

Facilities and Amenities at Johannesburg Hockey Clubs

Johannesburg’s hockey clubs offer modern astroturf pitches, many of which meet FIH standards, ensuring a consistent playing surface. Clubhouses provide dining, changing rooms, and social spaces, with Wanderers and Pirates offering particularly vibrant atmospheres. Most clubs have coaching staff with provincial or national experience, and some, like UJ, provide access to sports science facilities. Social hockey nights and junior clinics are common, and clubs like Beaulieu and Riverside offer family-friendly environments with additional amenities like picnic areas.

Accessibility for New and Visiting Players

Unlike some sports, Johannesburg’s hockey clubs are highly accessible to new and non-members. Most welcome trial players and offer affordable social hockey sessions (R50–R100 per game). Clubs like Khosa and Benoni Northerns prioritize inclusivity, providing equipment for beginners. Online booking systems, available at UJ and Sandton, make joining easy. For visitors, contacting clubs in advance ensures access to social games or guest memberships, with Wanderers and Old Edwardians being particularly accommodating.

Johannesburg’s Hockey Culture

Johannesburg’s hockey culture is dynamic, blending competitive spirit with community engagement. Clubs foster camaraderie through post-match socials, braais, and tournaments, creating a welcoming environment for newcomers. The city’s clubs are part of the Gauteng Hockey Association, which organizes leagues and development programs. Events like the FIH Hockey Women’s Nations Cup 2 in 2025 highlight South Africa’s growing role in global hockey, with local clubs contributing talent. The sport’s inclusivity, from elite teams at UJ to community-driven clubs like Khosa, makes Johannesburg a hub for hockey lovers.

Conclusion

Johannesburg’s top 10 hockey clubs offer a perfect mix of competitive play, community spirit, and top-tier facilities, catering to players of all levels in 2025. From the prestigious Wanderers to the community-focused Khosa, each club provides unique strengths, whether it’s professional coaching, family-friendly programs, or vibrant social scenes. With affordable fees and accessible social hockey, Johannesburg is an ideal destination for field hockey enthusiasts. Choose a club that matches your goals, join a trial, and immerse yourself in the city’s thriving hockey culture for an unforgettable experience.