On Thursday, 28July the senior boys’ and girls’ hockey teams went out to Greensborough to participate at the Regional Level of the interschools sports competition for Hockey. Having progressed at Mickleham Division level without playing, it meant a fast-learning curve for those players on both teams who had never played the game before.

It was a shame that the girls’ team had only the one fixture against Princess Hill – a game that saw Hume Anglican Grammar down 4 - 0 by half-time. However, with improving skills and a greater awareness of the game play, the team was able to prevent the opposition from scoring in the second half and even held play in the opposition half for most of the play. Despite only having the one game, they still achieved a pennant as worthy runners-up at this level.

The boys played three games on the day, securing two wins from the first and last fixtures against Northcote and Hazel Glen 1 - 0 respectively. Gurbaaz Hundal’s goal was almost impressive as his celebratory flair in the first game, while Ryan Herath’s first goal in only his third game in the sport will be fondly remembered. While playing valiantly in the middle game, they lost 2 - 0 to Princess Hill. However, their other efforts also saw them attain the status of runner-up at Regional Level.

Some careful mentoring and consideration of where experienced players could play to support the ‘rookies’ helped build team spirit and make the outing a wonderful and worthy one. Many of the Year 11 students are certainly keen for a final opportunity in a year’s time.

Clive Parkin – Head of Faculty - English