It has been a busy season on the hockey pitch for the boys with 150 matches played and 16 teams put out on a weekend. Despite the rather wet start to the year at least no fixtures have been lost to snow!
The 1stXI have shown excellent progress throughout the term. The season started with an enjoyable pre-season camp at Cardiff Met University and a large intake of newcomers to the squad have worked hard throughout the term to develop. A tough Cup draw saw them lose early on to Churchers College but success followed in the England Hockey Plate. Wins came against Eastbourne College, Kings College Wimbledon and Alleyns in the quarter final with extra time penalty flicks. The boys dominated in their semi-final against King’s School Bruton winning 5-1. They look forward to their National Plate final vs Abingdon School at the end of April. In the Saturday blocks the progress has been evident with strong performances against Abingdon in an exciting 3-3 draw, Charterhouse and a very strong Cranleigh team where they only narrowly lost. The last block fixture against Radley ended in a 4-2 win for the boys.
We are delighted to report that Captain Harry (A) represented England U18 in the Four Nations Tournament in France over Easter where the team finished second to Belgium ahead of Spain and France. The midfielder, who plays for Reading Hockey Club in the Premier League, also played against Ireland over half term.
The 2ndXI have had a superb season, winning all bar two games. As a group they have worked tremendously hard and individually have shown significant progress. Among the highlights were the 2-1 win against Cheltenham 1stXI, reflecting the depth we have had in the seniors this term. Special mentions should go to Harry (C) and Jake (C) in defence along with Will (C) up front who has tormented defences with his speed. In midfield Oscar (A) has played with intelligence as he controls the games.
The U16s continue to show superb progress and attitude. Charlie (A) has led the line with energy and a real eye for goal. Mr Ruxton has instilled some very clear patterns of play and as a group they have real quality. Freddy (H) and Joey (A) have posed a threat from corners, Gabe (D) is always a threat with his pace in attack and Luke (E) with his sublime skills in midfield can turn most defences inside out! Nathaniel (F) and Artie (A) have shown strength and control at the back. It will be exciting to see how this group step up next in the Senior teams.
The U15s continue to make really pleasing progress. Despite losing to KCS Wimbledon in the ISHC they have shown a fantastic attitude in training and on weekends. The recent draw against Cranleigh shows their level of development having been beaten last year. The midfield has been driven by Ollie (F) and Zac (H) and in James (H) in goal they have a superb shot stopper. Silas (F), with his indefatigable approach, has led very well as captain.
The U14s have had a very good season. The ‘A’ team have been the highest scorers in the school with 40 goals scored in their 12 matches to date. The boys reached the quarter-finals in the England Hockey Plate where they lost against RGS Guildford. Miles (LD) and Charlie (LE) have impressed with their skills and George (LF) has shown a good eye for goal playing up front. It has been a hugely competitive term of hockey with Inter House matches and one cup semi-final still to play. Thanks must go to all the coaching staff for their efforts every week and to the girls and boys for their energy and commitment.
