Wallingford U8s tournament

Brrrr - it was a very cold early Sunday morning, where we sent 2 developmental teams to the Wallingford U8s festival. Our expectations around results were never too high given that we had 4 players - Seth, Oliver, Elsie and Rory - getting their first taste of tournament hockey, as well as a number of younger players with another year in this age group, and we were keen to make sure that everyone enjoyed the day and learnt from the experience.

The players however performed brilliantly despite most results going against us - perhaps not unsurprisingly as we were often up against older, stronger and more experienced players. Matt and I watched some really good passing and positional play on both Thame teams and most importantly, despite the mix in ages, they all played as a team, never gave up and seemed to be enjoying their hockey despite some cold fingers - well done Charlotte in particular for coming back on for the last game after fingers had thawed out.

My highlight of the day was watching the smallest player on the pitch, 5 year old Rory, isolated in defence after a Thame attack broke down, calmly stop and clear the ball to the wing with 3 large Bicester attackers bearing down on him.

All-in-all we were really pleased to see the progression the kids are making, many thanks to all the parents for their support of their wonderful kids and we look forward to seeing everyone back at training