The U16 team have also performed well this year, turning the positive energy and willingness to work hard on the training pitch into results in fixtures. The U16Bs battled well against strong ‘A’ team opposition in the Berkshire County Cup. The U16As impressed with their drive to improve, becoming a very effective passing team and this was seen in their good results against Cranleigh, Epsom and Cheltenham. They finished strongly against a Canford 2ndXI, winning 2-1 against a more experienced opposition. The team also played some superb hockey during the indoor programme where they reached the regional finals.
The 1stXI brought a huge amount of energy to both training and matches and scored an impressive 60 goals across their 23 matches this season. The attack, spearheaded by ‘Player of the Season’ Poppy (M), who has scored a College record 28 goals, along with the irrepressible Cecily (J) and the much improved Annie (M), were a thorn in the side of all oppositions defences through playing in a fast and direct fashion. In midfield Immy (I) Bella (M) and Jazzy (I) have used their skill and technical strengths to create plenty of chances for the team, while in defence Laura (J) and Grace (K) were calm and composed on the ball. Captain Minny (I) read the game well from centre back and showed real bravery especially in penalty corner defence with some superb stops on the line. In goal the team will certainly miss Charlotte (M) for some fantastic saves and some excellent coaching.
One of the many highlights of the term was the Senior Hockey Tour to Eindhoven, Netherlands. Thirty pupils from two Senior Squads enjoyed training and playing at the wonderful facilities at Oranje-Rood HC, taking part in six matches and winning five of them. Among the standout moments was watching the Premier League Hockey match between Rotterdam and HGC.
A number of players continue to achieve success beyond the pitches at Bradfield with Daisy (K), Ava, Emma (M), Jemima (M), Jessica (M), Bella and Jazzy all training at the Reading Hockey Club Talent Academy. After a successful Futures Cup performance last summer Jazzy made it through to the last 30 players in England U16 trials; an excellent achievement.
