U11A Hockey Team Shine at IAPS Finals
The U11A Hockey team capped off an outstanding season with a memorable appearance at the prestigious IAPS Hockey Finals, hosted at Haileybury School. It was a day that showcased their skill, resilience, and team spirit.
After a sharp warm-up and tactical briefing, they faced their first opponents, Kings Canterbury. Despite intense pressure, the team defended superbly, with Liliana producing a string of remarkable saves. A well-taken goal gave Hurst the lead, but Kings Canterbury fought back to claim a narrow win.
Undeterred, the team responded brilliantly against Millfield, delivering a superb performance and a decisive goal from Elsa to secure victory. Further group matches against Heath Mount and Barnardiston Hall tested their resolve, and a hard-fought draw ensured a third-place finish in the group — earning a strong draw in the Plate Competition.
A thrilling quarterfinal against Mill Hill saw Hurst dominate with relentless pressing, sealing a 1-0 win. The semi-final against Hilden Grange was a tense affair, ending goalless before heartbreak struck in Golden Goal. In the 3rd/4th playoff, however, redemption came as Isabella scored a dramatic winner in extra time.
Finishing 3rd in the Plate Competition and 11th overall is a fantastic achievement for this talented group. Their journey to the finals reflects not only their skill but their unwavering commitment throughout an unforgettable season.
U12A Squad Impress at National Finals
The U12A hockey team delivered a remarkable performance at the National Finals, showcasing exceptional skill, determination, and teamwork throughout the tournament.
From the opening whistle, the squad set an impressive standard, winning every match in the group stage and finishing top without a single loss. This outstanding achievement secured their place in the National Cup and propelled them into the quarter-finals — a fantastic milestone for the players.
The quarter final brought a stern test against strong opposition. Despite a spirited effort and some excellent passages of play, the team narrowly missed out on progressing further. Their journey concluded with an eighth-place finish nationally, an incredible accomplishment and a testament to the progress this group has made.
Finishing eighth in the country is something to celebrate. The squad leaves the tournament with heads held high and plenty of motivation to build on this success in the seasons ahead.
U13A Hockey Team Compete at National Finals
Earlier this term, the U13A hockey team proudly represented Sussex at the prestigious IAPS National Hockey Finals, held at Wellington College in Berkshire. It was an exciting and challenging day for the squad, who had worked tirelessly to earn their place among the country’s best.
The girls faced a tough group stage, competing against strong sides from Lambrook, Repton, and Cheam School. Despite battling hard and showing great teamwork, they narrowly missed out on wins, which placed them into the Plate competition.
In the Plate rounds, the team came up against a formidable St Peter’s side. They moved the ball well, created promising chances, and demonstrated excellent team play, but just lacked the finishing touch in the circle. Throughout the tournament, their resilience and determination were clear — they never gave up and worked tirelessly for each other in every game.
Finishing in the top 16 nationally is a fantastic achievement and a valuable experience for the squad. With their sights set on building from this success, the team is already motivated to reach even greater heights next year.
