Under 18 Hockey at The King's School
'On Tuesday, 6th of October, the TWGGS Under 18 hockey team took off to The King's School Canterbury, to take part in their yearly hockey tournament. This was our team's first ever experience playing together, and the first time a TWGGS Under 18 group has played since 2021, proving to be a great feat in terms of contribution to sport from the school. Each match consisted of fifteen minutes of high intensity gameplay, with the whole team working hard to make each other proud despite the competitive environment.
'Our first match was against Benenden School and, during this quarter, we established the team rapport and got used to playing with one another. We had to coordinate the different dynamics across the pitch, whilst also navigating the other team's style. We fought hard and were met with a respectable offence, ending the match with a 0-0 draw reflective of our priorities that lay in creating team chemistry. Our next two matches were against St Edmund's School and The Duke of York's Royal Military School, both instances losing with an unfortunate but close 0-1. While we were disappointed with these results, we continued to fight hard and displayed complete resilience on the pitch. 'Through these matches, we were able to recognise how the short timeframe did not allow for any mistakes, and ultimately served as an incredible use of reflection for the upcoming games. We then played Kent College Pembury in the semi-final for the chance of winning the plate. It was an exceptionally close game, ultimately ending in a score of 1-1, with a fabulous goal by Eilidh P, U6T, a new player to the sport but undoubtedly a valuable member of the team who never fails to step up to a challenge. Because of this draw, the game went into penalty flicks, a high-pressure, high-stakes situation in which a handful of players are chosen with a single chance between them and the goalkeeper to score a point for the team. This is always the most nail-biting but satisfying part of the tournament, but thanks to Mia L, L6T, Eva R, L6B, Isabela P, U6S, and Daisy J, L6S volunteering we secured our place and won 3-2. However, this win could not have been solidified without the excellent goalkeeping of Lizzie B, L6B, who fought hard throughout each game, in the flicks remained composed and strong, providing a near-impossible barrier for the opponents to face. 'Then came our final game of the tournament, against the The King's School Canterbury, and, with the incentive of winning the plate in mind, we knew we had to perform with all our determination for this final push. This match involved some of the most intense, fast-paced gameplay we had experienced so far. Thanks to the wonderful goals won by Daisy and Tilly R, L6B, we won the match with an impressive 2-0 score line. Canterbury put up a strong fight, but our team never faltered. Even when Isabela faced an unexpected hockey ball straight to the face, she continued to provide confidence and support from the sidelines that was much needed during the pressure of the match. With this win we secured the plate, a well-deserved place reflective of our team's perseverance and fight. The day itself was filled with excitement, and we came away revelling in the enjoyment of playing in a tournament with a team and as individuals. Thank you to Miss Withers and Mrs Scovell for organising, coordinating, umpiring and travelling, never failing to fill our team with assurance and unwavering support, we truly could not have done it without their help.'
Lilia K, U6S Under 14 County Tournament
In September the Under 14 hockey team travelled to Sevenoaks to compete in the U14 County Tournament. They played well showing great communication and cohesion, especially as they are a new mix of players. Within the group stage the team won three out of the four matches which meant the team got through the semi-finals at Radnor house. The team then had to face Tonbridge Grammar School in the semi-final, they played very well but unfortunately lost the game. The team finished third overall in the county. Well done! Miss Withers