We have reached the halfway point of this year’s hockey season, and what a season it has been so far. It has been a busy and rewarding first half, with many of our teams performing strongly across both primary and secondary levels. Well done to all the students who have given up their time to represent the school — your commitment and sportsmanship have been outstanding.
Girls hockey – The girls’ programme is looking particularly positive this year. Our girls’ teams have produced encouraging results and performances across the age groups. Notably, the primary girls won their first league match convincingly. In the 8v8 competition, our 1st year girls reached the final; after a hard-fought 0–0 draw, the match went to penalties and the girls narrowly missed out, finishing as silver medallists after a 2–1 shoot-out. The minor girls sit top of their table with three wins and one draw, while the junior girls are tied for first place on the log. Our senior girls are showing promise as well — narrowly missing out on wins in several matches — which is to be expected from a young squad that is building toward stronger seasons ahead. Overall, the girls’ programme is developing depth and resilience, and the results to date are very encouraging.
Boys hockey – Boys hockey continues to grow, with increased player numbers and strong commitment across age groups. Primary boys have played two league matches so far, both ending in draws against Taney. In their next fixture against St. Andrew’s College, both primary teams showed excellent spirit and technical improvement, despite losing 4–2 and 2–1; these close scorelines underline how much progress has been made. The 1st year boys began their 11-a-side league after the October midterm and have played two matches (one cancelled due to weather), recording a draw and a loss. Minor boys currently sit fifth in their league with two wins and two losses; several of their fixtures were postponed because of bad weather and will be played in the new year, giving them an opportunity to climb the table. The junior boys have punched above their weight this season against some of the top schools in Leinster, achieving two wins, two draws and three losses. We now wait on other teams result to see if the boys secured top 4, which will mean the top 4 will play each other after Christmas to decide the league winner. The senior boys have had a tougher season but are improving each match and view this campaign as a rebuilding year in preparation for a stronger challenge next season.
The second half of the season is shaping up to be important and potentially very rewarding. Our girls’ teams are well placed to push for top positions, and the boys’ teams have the talent and momentum to make significant gains, especially once postponed matches are played.
Peabo Lembethe
Head Of Hockey
