The Chronicle, Spring 2019

42 ST EDWARD’S CHRONICLE

Hockey By Jamie Davies, Head of Hockey, and Ed Ellis, Hockey Professional

The 1st XI were unfortunate not to record more wins this season, coming up against some immensely strong teams, and often the performance they gave did not match up to the result their effort deserved. A hard fought win against Stowe was the best of the school fixtures, while they tore up the form book to qualify for the second round of national qualifying, thrillingly beating Headington on penalty flicks. Lola Timms lead the team fantastically well throughout the term, while Maddie Catchpole made big strides in goal and Sasha Withers Green was nominated Players’ Player of the season. For the 2nd XI this season it was largely just a case of not being able to find the back of the net, with four 1-0 losses. They were able to mount plenty of pressure, but were unable to convert it into anything tangible

on the scoreboard. They did save their best performance for last though, with a thrilling 3-2 victory over Bloxham. Amy Theakstone was awarded the Most Improved Player, Rose Bourdillon won the Players’ Player award and Ilana Cope was awarded the Coaches’ Award for her consistent performances in goal. The U16A had a very impressive season, despite having three of their team playing in the 1st XI. The highlight of the season was qualifying for the second round of the Nationals as County Champions and they were an ‘interesting’ umpiring decision away from reaching the knockout rounds. They won 9 out of 15 matches with Player’s Player going to Gini Hope and the Coaches’ Award and Most Improved Player going to Tiggy Jones and Aliya Jones respectively.

The U15A backed up their extremely successful season last year by playing some great hockey throughout the campaign. The wins against Pangbourne, Kimbolton, Tudor Hall, Bradfield and Bloxham were particularly dominant. Two specific highlights stand out, however; winning 2-0 away against Marlborough with Lila Howard and Anna West scoring and a narrow loss to Cheltenham. The girls deserved a huge amount more from the latter result but it was a great end-to-end game. Lila Howard picked up the Most Valuable Player award with Amy Burnett receiving the Coaches’ Award due to her brave defending. A massive mention to Tilly Pumfrey who won the Most Improved Player; her dedication and hard work is something everyone should learn from.

Hamish Roots OSE

Lettie Neame in action v Stowe