Seven players from the Steinhoff Maties Hockey Club have been selected to represent South Africa at the U/21 World Cup in India later this year.

Tarryn Glasby, Dani Cairns and Christine Seggie were selected for the SA U/21 women's team, while Alex Stewart, Robert McKinley, Matt de Sousa and Charles Bowren were selected for the men's team. Stewart will captain the SA U/21 men's team during the tournament to be held in December.

"Captaining the team is a massive honour and privilege," said Stewart.

He believes this U/21 team represents the future of SA hockey.

"Eight players in the team received their first caps for the senior team at the start of the year when the SA men's side played against Ireland, Belgium and Canada. We all played really well and got some vital experience."

Stewart is the second Matie to lead the SA U/21 team in the past few years after Dylan Swanepoel did so in 2013. Swanepoel is the current Maties men's captain.

"To be the leader and captain of this team is a big task, but I believe I am up for it. I'm getting great mentorship from Dylan, senior players, coaches and my dad!"

Stewart is the son of legendary Matie Leith Stewart who also played hockey for South Africa.