Despite the challenges the pandemic has brought this term, nothing has dampened the boys’ enthusiasm to push back on the Astroturf and represent the school in competitive hockey fixtures once again. It has been great to see the dedication of the boys (and staff), their joy at both training and competing in matches, and their wonderful sportsmanship each week.
U13
The U13s had a good start to the season with some fantastic scores – the A team starting off with a win against Hitchin and Witham Hall, as well as a 5-0 victory over Winchester. They are set to do well when we host the IAPS qualifiers on Monday (7 February). However, it is the 3rd XII who have achieved the most comprehensive results: 12-0 and 5-0. Under the wily guidance of Mr Studd, the boys are really flourishing.
U11
The D team have taken the biggest win of the season to date for their age group: 8:0 against Winchester House, as well a 4-0 convincing win against Kimbolton. The A team are really starting to develop and play some nice hockey, winning the last three games on the bounce having got off to a rocky start. They will also look to really show what they can do at the IAPS qualifiers on Friday (4 February).
U10
The U10s have been hit the hardest with cancelled games, although the C and D teams premiered with a 6-0 and 4-0 win against Stamford respectively while the A and B teams narrowly missed out to Kimbolton. They are a talented bunch with real potential all down the squad. and look forward to playing Kimbolton and The Perse in a tri-tournament on Friday (4 February).
The 16 teams from the U13, U11 and U10 took on Felsted on Wednesday and, as ever, it was a fantastic fixture. Our U11 and U13 boys competing in the IAPS Qualifier tournaments on Friday and Monday will, no doubt, be looking to switch up their loss and draw on Wednesday and go one better than the Upper School’s 1st XI, who drew against Felsted at the weekend.
**Hot off the Press**
We are delighted to announce that the U11 team reached the final of the IAPS Qualifiers to secure their place at the national finals to be held at Rugby School on Wednesday 2 March. The hotly-contested final finished 2-0 to Bilton Grange. Our congratulations go to them on a brilliant match.
