Page 14 - Principal's Newsletter Term 2 2018
P. 14
HOCKEY REPORT
“HOW’S THE HOCKEY GOING?”
Well, if you like statistics we can sum it up This is a tremendous platform for the future,
easily; played 54, won 23, drawn 7, lost 24, a real testament to the work done by
scored 163 and let in 159 at our end. Job previous and current coaches, and a ringing
done. endorsement of the attitude and efforts of
the boys themselves.
Of course, if I were to say that currently the
st
1 XI were on the fringe of the top four of It has been a rather odd first half of the
the Wellington Premier Boys competition, season. Never before have we had so many
nd
only separated by one goal; the 2 XI, Rams players involved so heavily in the School
(3 XI) and Senior College occupied the 2 , Production! We have previously
rd
nd
rd
3 and 4 spots in the Wairarapa Boys’ accommodated the huge existing
th
Division; and the mighty Renegades, our commitments of these talented youngsters,
junior/beginner/developer side were but, never in such numbers. The impact was
nd
battling for the 2 spot in the Combined such that a reduction in the normal number
College competition, it might sound a little of teams was necessary for Term 2.
more impressive! Consequently, a novel solution was required
to meet their desire (compulsion) to play
Returning to the numbers, perhaps more
significant to the development and quality their winter sport. Enter stage left the “Post-
of hockey at Rathkeale, is the current Production Team” (perhaps awaiting a re-
balance of younger and older players. The name). A team comprising a collection of
1 XI squad includes 6 players from Years actors/performers/stage hands drawn from
st
10 and 11, with 5 of only 6 Year 13 across Years and schools will make their
students in total across our top 3 teams. debut on the turf next term! Given the
nd
The 2 XI squad has only 2 Year 12 bonds forged over so many hours of
students, 3 Year 11 and the remainder from rehearsal and performance, I hope that this
the junior school. The Rams also have will be an enjoyable and rewarding
juniors comprising well over half of their experience.
squad. With continued development this is One final number relates to the prestigious
indeed an exciting prospect. I must say that weekly recognition of a player from each
a highlight of the season so far was a game team as the GVP (Gaffney’s Valuable Player).
between the 2 XI and the Rams. I cannot Careful consideration follows hours of
nd
remember seeing such a contest between performance analysis in the balmy
these two sides that displayed such a level conditions of a Clareville winter. 53
of skill, game knowledge and commitment. nominees from 94 players says it all!
Congratulations to all of our Cookie
recipients, but above all I hope every single
player is enjoying their hockey.
A final huge thank you to our umpires and
to all of you who have braved the
conditions to support our boys and girls.
Here’s to a successful second half.
Matt Gaffney -Head of Hockey
P.S. If I had an extra degree of heat for every positive
comment received from opposition and neutrals,
regarding our boys’ behaviour and sportsmanship, I
would be positively basking in the warmth .
