SASCOC president, Gideon Sam, when announcing a R400-million injection on the Road to London, alluded that the focus was on excellence. “We want 12 (medals) in 12 (2012),” he said, “and we want “excellence”. He added that “team sports would have to be medal candidates”.

King, who oversaw a 3-0 series defeat against third-ranked Germany in Stellenbosch last month, however, feels that if that’s the benchmark then women’s hockey would not be going to London. And she argued it would be detrimental to the sport.

“I can tell you now that we won’t be a realistic medal hope in London, but you only really don’t have a chance when you are not there. It will be good for hockey if we can go to London, but if we don’t, there will be far-reaching consequences so I hope it doesn’t get to that,” King said.

“The average age of this team is 20 and they’ve got so much potential. Top nations have a high respect for South African hockey and I just wish we can be a given a chance. I understand the financial implications, but we will lose so much if selection is based on medals only.”

King admitted that, “we need to get used to winning on the big stage and it’s all about learning to win really. It could all come together after that.”