Shrewsbury

Girls' 1st XI Hockey team crowned Midlands Champions

November 8th 2024

Shrewsbury’s 1st XI Girls’ Hockey squad have been crowned Midlands Champions.

After an impressive victory in the county championships, our 1st XI qualified for the regional finals held on Wednesday, 6th November. The top two schools from each county across the Midlands competed for the chance to qualify for the national finals. Shrewsbury was one of 12 schools that made it through, having either won or finished as runners-up in their respective county rounds.

Placed in a group with Leicester Grammar School, Abbotsholme, Marlborough, Nottingham High School and King Henry's Coventry, our girls triumphed with some fantastic goals. The goals were shared among Catty C (MSH, UVI), Gabby B (QEH, UVI), Amelia O (QEH, LVI), Jess F-A (EDH, UVI), and Bella S-B (MSH, LVI). Topping their group, they faced Worksop College, winners of the Nottinghamshire county, in the semi-final.

In the semi-final, the girls' confidence continued to grow as they played some excellent hockey. A 3-1 victory, with goals from Catty C (x2) and Gabby B, secured their place in the final against Ratcliffe College, champions of Leicester. In the final, the girls maintained their passing game and managed ball possession extremely well. A brilliant move by Willa B (MSH, V) and Amelia B (MSH, LVI) set up Catty C for the decisive goal.

Despite Ratcliffe having a chance to equalise, Esther G (QEH, LVI) made a remarkable 1-on-1 save to ensure Shrewsbury emerged as Midlands champions. This victory means they will represent the Midlands at the National Finals in February, where they will compete against the winners of eight regions from across England for the title of national champions.

This journey highlights the girls' exceptional effort, teamwork, and determination. Under the fantastic leadership of Sofia C (MSH, UVI) and Sarah L (EDH, UVI), they have continually supported each other and strived to improve. We wish them the best of luck in February.