This week, The Friary’s hockey teams kicked off their fixtures in style, taking on Queen Mary’s School in what turned out to be an exciting and competitive match.
Despite a thrilling performance across all four teams, The Friary finished as runners-up overall, narrowly missing out by just one point. It was still a day full of goals, brilliant play, and an atmosphere of camaraderie that showcased just how much the sport has taken off at The Friary.
One standout moment came from Year 8 player Natalie Walker, who demonstrated exceptional dedication by competing despite it being her birthday and even scoring some goals! Natalie’s commitment to her team and the game was truly inspiring, and it was clear that her focus and determination were not affected by the celebrations. A huge thank you goes to Natalie’s parents as well, who kindly provided birthday treats for the players after the game, adding a touch of sweetness to an already action-packed day.
With 36 students participating across four teams, Friary had plenty of support on the pitch, and it was clear to see how much the popularity of hockey has grown at the school. The teams showed great cohesion and effort, with a number of impressive goals being scored on both sides. While Queen Mary’s managed to edge ahead, Friary’s players proved their worth with spirited play, tactical teamwork, and a solid attack.
Kim Fallows, team coach, said: “Next week, the teams will be back in action with a training game set to take place on a full pitch. The session will focus on refining key aspects of the game, particularly short corner practice, as the players prepare for their upcoming matches against Lichfield Cathedral. With the competition heating up, the training session promises to be an important step in getting the players ready for the challenges ahead.”
