The Chronicle, No. 669, January 2016

27 ST EDWARD’S CHRONICLE

Girls’ Hockey By Zak Jones, Head of Hockey

The 1st XI enjoyed an incredible season - one in which they lost only one school match all term. Their record in all competitions read: won 22, drew 6, lost 4. They scored an impressive 98 goals whilst conceding only 34. This is the second best set of numbers in the School’s history; only the legendary girls’ 1st XI of 2007 secured better statistics. They were crowned County Champions once again, coming through the tournament unbeaten, conceding just a single goal. In the South Round, they conceded with the last hit of the game to draw with eventual winners Eastbourne, having lost to Ardingly 3-2 and beaten Peter Symonds 5-0. The 1st XI also entered the inaugural Independent Schools Hockey Cup where they beat Tudor Hall in the first round, then produced a stunning performance - one of the best in recent memory - to beat a quality Bromsgrove side 3-1. Despite playing superbly they were eventually knocked out by Millfield in the last 16. The side were also semi-finalists in the prestigious St George’s Sixes. Having won all their group games, including victories over Kingston GS and Ipswich, they eventually lost their semi-final to Cranleigh. After a tough start to the term the 2nd XI found their feet with a draw against Pangbourne. Taking confidence from this they moved forwards with wins against Bradfield, Stowe and Kimbolton playing some free-flowing hockey. Marlborough provided a challenge but the girls bounced back with

wins against Tudor Hall and Bloxham before a hard-fought loss to Wellington. The 3rd XI enjoyed a fantastic season, winning seven of their eleven fixtures and scoring freely. Wins were secured v Pangbourne, Bradfield, Stowe, MCS, Bloxham and – after a hard- fought, final-day match - away at Wellington. It has been an excellent term for the U16As who have come a long way in terms of their hockey. Highlights of the season were the 5-1 win at Stowe where they played some of their best hockey and the real grit displayed in the 2-1 win over Marlborough. As a team, they have played with spirit and humour while always looking to focus on the positives. The U16B also enjoyed a positive term with fine wins over Cheltenham College, Pangbourne, Bradfield, MCS and Marlborough. It has been an up and down season for the U15As. Having recorded 3 wins, 2 draws and 6 losses, the girls were pleased with their success yet also disappointed as they believe they could have achieved more. They were always a pleasure to coach as they improved enormously over the term, and played some incredible hockey in parts, as their hard work and willingness to improve paid off. The U15Bs had a tough start to the season but despite losing their first game, the girls worked hard during training and started to gain a better understanding of the game. They displayed great teamwork to win their next six fixtures against the likes

of Marlborough, Cheltenham and Bradfield. In the last game of the season they lost to a strong Wellington side. The U15C’s definitely progressed throughout the season. As their passing and stick control improved they came together as a team and they won a number of their matches towards the end of term. The U14A team made very good progress despite facing a tough fixture list; the highlight was the win against Tudor Hall with Alana Wilson ( Cheam ) scoring the decisive goal. Maddie Catchpole ( Dragon ) was the player of the season with many excellent saves as the team’s very busy goalkeeper. The U14B team were totally committed throughout the season which made their successes all the more pleasing. They worked hard as a team and persevered, staying motivated and positive at all times. Special mention must go to captain, Alanna McCrum ( Jumeirah College, Dubai ), Cate Luke ( Dragon ), Sophie Marston ( Winchester House ), Elly Won ( Schule Schloss Salem ), Natalia Elezovic ( Fulham Prep ) and our secret weapon, the skilful Ruby Smith ( Dragon ). The U14C came together at the start of term with little or no hockey experience. They faced opposition with courage and enthusiasm, developing their understanding of the game as they progressed through the term. Many have worked hard on improving their individual skills and match play which has allowed a number of them to be selected for B team matches.

Julian Measey

Scoring v Canford in September