Kazuki Yamamoto

Although hockey is not a major sport in Japan, the junior high school Kazuki Yamamoto went to is one of the few where it was played. In the three years he was there, thanks to the school coach, Kazuki began to develop his skills and understanding of the game.

He came to NZ in 2018 in order to improve his English. While at his first Christchurch school, he played in the social hockey grade. Kazuki remembers seeing boys from St Bede’s play, and was impressed by their level of hockey, their skills and their team spirit. Because of this, Kazuki decided that St Bede’s was the school for him.

Kazuki was thrilled to make the 1st XI squad for the 2019 season. Although at first, he felt nervous and worried about whether he was good enough for that team, with the help of the coaches and support of the boys, he became more confident and comfortable within the group. He was pleased to retain his place in the team for this year.

Kazuki has also played for the Marist Hockey Club, and has enjoyed mixing with the older players, and experiencing another level of hockey. He appreciates the help he has received from the coaches and the Marist club in giving him the experience.

Kazuki was appointed the International Student Leader this year and has helped international students in the boarding school. Also, Kazuki’s English speaking skills have improved as well, so much so that he can converse easily with anyone.

Kazuki decided to apply to two top hockey universities in Japan for 2021. Over the years, these two universities have had the greatest number of Old Boys’ play for Japan. His 1st XI and Marist Club experience will hopefully be his point of difference in his application, and in time, Kazuki wants to be our first graduate to achieve that national honour. Kazuki also wants to secure a professional contract with a European team.

Kazuki acknowledges that many people have made it possible for him to get where he is today, and he was moved by the standing ovation he received from the boys when Mr Boyle presented him with his Honours Pocket this week.

Kazuki hoped that after taking the entrance tests he could have returned to St Bede’s and take part in the Leavers’ celebrations at the end of the year. Unfortunately, because the borders are still closed, this will not be possible. He will leave us on the 22nd September, but he knows he was “Once a Bedean” and that he is “always a Bedean”.