U13A Hockey Team Triumphs at IAPS Qualifying Round
The U13A Hockey team delivered an outstanding performance at the IAPS Qualifying Round held at Bede’s School, showcasing skill, determination, and teamwork throughout a thrilling day of competition.
The girls kicked off the tournament with a confident 2-0 win against Holmewood House, setting the tone for the day. Their second match proved to be a dramatic encounter against a strong Highfield side. Trailing 3-1 with just two minutes remaining, the team showed remarkable resilience, battling back to score twice — including a last-gasp equaliser in the final 30 seconds — to secure a 3-3 draw.
From that moment on, the team played with fluency and flair, dominating their group with further victories over Bede’s School (4-0), Hazelwood School (2-0), and a hard-fought 1-1 draw against Edgeborough. Their consistent performances saw them finish top of their group.
In the quarter-finals, the girls controlled possession against Cranleigh and converted a well-executed short corner to claim a deserved 1-0 win. The semi-final against Brambletye was another test of grit and teamwork. An early goal and disciplined possession secured another 1-0 victory and a place in the National Finals.
Although fatigue began to show in the final against a strong St Andrews side, the team fought valiantly, narrowly losing 2-1. Despite the result, spirits remained high as the girls celebrated their qualification for the National Finals and reflected on a day filled with exciting hockey and memorable moments.
U11 Girls Shine at IAPS Qualifying Tournament, Securing Spot at National Finals
The U11 girls’ hockey team travelled to Eastbourne for the highly anticipated IAPS qualifying tournament, brimming with excitement and determination. The team arrived early, giving them time to settle in, warm up, and focus ahead of their opening group match against Rosehill.
Despite a slow start, the girls quickly found their rhythm. By using the wide channels and breaking through the opposition’s defence, they netted two well-crafted goals to secure a confident win.
Next up was Brighton College, Handcross – a formidable opponent. Although Hurst dominated possession, they trailed by a goal at halftime. Undeterred, the team responded with resilience and flair, scoring two goals in the second half to clinch a hard-fought victory.
The final group game against Somerhill was a fast-paced, end-to-end contest. With chances for both sides, the match ended in a goalless draw, leading to a shuffle shootout to determine the group winner. Elsa, Effy, and Orla stepped up for Hurst, and after Solihull missed two attempts, Effy calmly slotted home the decisive goal, securing top spot in the group.
In the afternoon quarter-final against Seaford College, energy levels dipped slightly and complacency crept in. Despite creating chances, the match ended 0-0, prompting another shuffle shootout. With the score tied at 2-2 after three attempts each, sudden death followed. Elsa converted her shuffle, and Liliana made a crucial save to send Hurst through to the semi-finals.
The semi-final against Brambletye was a true test of character. Fatigue was setting in, but the girls dug deep and overcame a determined opponent to earn a place in the final – and more importantly, qualification for the IAPS National Finals.
The final against Hall Grove was a tough battle. Despite giving everything, the girls fell 1-3 to a strong team. Their effort, determination, and teamwork throughout the day earned them a well-deserved silver medal and a place at the National Finals – a fantastic achievement and a proud moment for Hurst.
