Chronicle Summer 2024

55 ST EDWARD’S CHRONICLE

Both the U16As and U16Bs had a rocky start to their season, with the U16As losing their first three close games. After focused training on skill development and attacking/defending practices, the girls won their subsequent games, beating Rugby 3-2 after being 0-2 down at half time and even reaching the quarter-final of the National Cup Championships. The U16Bs developed their skills as the season progressed and demonstrated their resilience and confidence on the hockey pitch, leading to a 7-0 win over Bromsgrove School. The U15As have enjoyed a strong season, winning over half of their games, highlighting their strength and ability to work as a team. They placed second in the U15 County Tournament, after narrowly missing out on penalty flicks in the final. The U15Bs and U15Cs have both flourished throughout their season, with the U15Bs celebrating wins over Bloxham and Tudor Hall, and the U15Cs winning against Bromsgrove and Stowe. Their other results are by no means any reflection of their playing ability and they have really developed as hockey players. The U14As started their season as they meant to go on, winning comfortably against Bloxham and Tudor Hall, allowing them to progress into the fourth round of the National Cup. In their County Tournament the girls lost out on goal difference, taking second place. The U14Bs had a nearly unbeaten season, losing only one fixture out of their 11. As the season progressed, the girls went from strength to strength, building their friendships and skills. Fixture highlights include a 7-1 win over Tudor Hall and 11-1

Sam Jackson and Alex Corbett

win over Kingham Hill. The U14Cs had an enjoyable season, with many players picking up a hockey stick for the first time! All players contributed to training and matches and are proud of their achievements, specifically their 2-0 win against Cheltenham Ladies’ College. Special thanks must go to the team captains for their leadership this year and their contributions to this report. Boys’ Hockey The Spring Term saw one of the most successful seasons for boys’ hockey in the last decade. Although the club may have been smaller than in recent years the talent and determination of our players has not faltered, with five teams playing in 48 competitive fixtures. The season kicked off with a four-day pre-season tour to Barcelona. 32 players across all age groups participated in six matches at notable clubs including Iluro HC and Atlètic Terrassa HC. Not only did the tour prepare the boys for the season ahead but it also provided an opportunity for older and younger players, new and old, to develop and strengthen bonds within their teams. The 1st XI season has been nothing short of spectacular with the team securing seven wins out of their 12 games, including an impressive 1-0 win over Bradfield. Their strong performance saw them progress towards the second round of the County Cup Championship but, unfortunately, they yielded to a tough Oundle team.

The 2nd XI saw great change, with the integration of new Fifth Form players into senior teams, led by a committed and supportive Sixth Form group. This team concluded their year of hockey with five victories over teams including Stowe, Wellington and Cheltenham. The 3rd XI played some nail-biting fixtures across the term, winning 4-2 against Abingdon and celebrating an impressive 7-1 victory over Wellington College. Whilst not all fixtures were won, this was no reflection on their enthusiasm, resilience and competitiveness as a team. The junior side of the club saw a mixed set of results, with great displays of sportsmanship and development across the two teams over the course of the season. The Junior As played 10 fixtures and won just over half. Their wins over Cheltenham and Cranford House were particular highlights. The Junior Bs also had a memorable season with many pupils playing hockey for the first time. The players really developed their skills and knowledge of the game over the course of the season, always playing with smiles on their faces. Their strongest matches included a comprehensive 7-0 win over Cranford and a 2-1 victory over Radley after a last-minute goal. I would like to extend my thanks to the staff and supporters who have cheered us on and coached the teams this year. It has been highly enjoyable and I look forward to the start of the new season in September.

Zac Hartley