HOCKEY
The dynamic energy and enthusiasm have been outstanding this season and observing so many players flourishing in their respective teams for school, as well as externally in clubs, player pathways, talent academies and festivals, not to mention their university applications, has been quite something.
It is always rewarding to see such a sense of accomplishment and achievement, be it the start of a new individual opportunity or sharing in moments of success from those striving for excellence. Camaraderie, problem-solving, challenge, leadership, independence, flashes of joy and exhilaration make the season journey so enjoyable. Alongside the vast number of fixtures were notable successes including regional finals for the U13 girls, U12 boys and U12 girls. The U18 girls and boys both reached the indoor regional finals and our U16 girls did fantastically, reaching the national indoor finals.
I am especially delighted to congratulate Summer Knight-Thompson on being awarded a hockey scholarship to Stanford University, Moritz Hippe on his impressive England U18 performances, 1st XI players Summer Knight-Thompson( EGHC), Carlotta and Victoria Kern, Ines Gascoyne-Day, Elena Iasci, Celia Foster, Moritz Hippe( Sevenoaks HC) and William Galloni( Oxted HC) who all competed in national league. Summer was also crowned European Indoor Champion, which is a stunning achievement!
A vibrant year for hockey marked by regional success and a spot at nationals for our U16s alongside excellent individual honours
My congratulations also to Betrys Galloni( OS 2023) who is Oxford Varsity Blues Captain for the forthcoming season, and Josefina Hippe on her contributions to Surbiton Ladies 1st XI and U19 Girls in the England Hockey League.
We finished the season with a fun-filled charity game of boys’ rugby vs girls’ hockey and the obligatory Staff vs Leavers; great memories made once again as hockey goes from strength to strength – bring on next season!
Cath Nicholson
74 SPORT REVIEW