An Exciting Summer Hockey Adventure
Over the summer, pupils embarked on an exciting Hockey Pre-Season Tour, starting with matches at Malvern College, where they faced Cheltenham College and RGS Newcastle in the annual RGS Trophy game. Against Cheltenham College, RGS were initially ahead 2-0, but due to the necessity of player rotation during a long day of Hockey, RGS were perhaps unlucky not to secure a win against this traditionally strong side. In contrast, the match against RGS Newcastle was a triumph, winning 3-0, marking the first victory for RGS Worcester in the RGS Trophy over the past three years—a thrilling achievement!
Following these games, the team commenced the journey to Nottingham. One of the highlights off the pitch was the girls participating in an Escape Room Experience. This activity was a fantastic opportunity for developing teamwork among players and breaking down barriers.
On Saturday, RGS began the Tier 1 competition with four matches, each lasting 15 minutes per half. The first game against KES Southampton ended 0-2, with two quick goals late in the second half serving as a wake-up call for the team. In the second match against Cheadle Hulme, RGS dominated the game and secured a 1-0 victory, thanks to a well-timed goal just five minutes before the end. The third game against Taunton School was closely contested and could have gone either way. The larger squad rotation might have influenced the result, but it was an invaluable learning experience for the girls. The final match against Haileybury saw RGS face the strongest team of the tournament, with Haileybury, featuring numerous international players, prevailing 5-0.
The evening was dedicated to a pool recovery session, followed by a team discussion on their Visions, Values, and Behaviours for the upcoming season. With the team fatigued, an early night was well-deserved. On Sunday, the final day of the competition, the team played the last pool game against St George’s Weybridge, ending in a 0-0 draw. This was arguably the best team performance of the trip, as players successfully neutralised a traditionally strong side and demonstrated excellent intensity and tactical discipline.
Advancing to the crossovers, RGS secured victories with a 2-0 win against Kirkham and a 3-0 win against Lord Wandsworth College. The team showed remarkable maturity and unity throughout the weekend. It is worth noting that the finalists and runners-up of the tournament came from the same pool of players, with Haileybury winning the final 6-0.
Standout performances came from Eden Williamson in goal, Isla Goold in midfield, and Ana Nicholls, who made a notable debut as Captain. In summary, it was a positive start both on and off the pitch with this exceptional group of players. An exciting Hockey season lies ahead for them.
Miss Sally Walton, Head of Hockey