Year 6 Quick-Sticks Event

O.L.I.competed in their first inter-school hockey competition at the prestigious Surbiton Hockey Club. Read this blog to find out how the nine children got on during the morning's play.

On Thursday 28th February 2019, eight Year 6 pupils (see photo) took part in O.L.I’s first ever Year 6 Quick-Sticks hockey competition. The event was hosted at Surbiton Hockey Club, one of the country’s leading clubs. A total of 20 primary schools took part, with O.L.I. placed in a very strong group coming up against: Christ Church Surbiton (last year’s winners), Tolworth, Green Lane and Coombe Hill.  

Following after-school training sessions and additional work in P.E., O.L.I. were ready and excited to transfer learnt skills to match situations. The team didn’t have to wait long as they played against Green Lane in the opening match of the competition. O.L.I dominated possession for long periods and made this count with two impressive goals. The team were able to hold on to this two-goal lead due to the great teamwork that they displayed in defence. 

After a short break, O.L.I. next played Tolworth Juniors in a more evenly contested match. Both teams had early opportunities to score but were unable to take advantage. However, towards the last minutes of the match, Tolworth scored a well-worked goal to win the encounter. In this match, O.L.I battled impressively against a team that would go on to win the entire competition.  

In the penultimate match against Coombe Hill, the children’s progression of skills and tactics were clear to see. All team members passed the ball with added accuracy and were also more fluent and in control when in possession. The even encounter ended 1-1; a well deserved draw. Christ Church were the team’s final opponents and they raced ahead to a 4-0 lead. However despite this, O.L.I’s excellent team spirit was on display and the team were able to score two quick-fire goals with the final result ending 4-2. 

In addition to participating in the matches, the team were also fortunate enough to meet and have a team photo with current Surbiton and GB star Brendon Creed. Additionally, following the end of the group stage, all team members took part in a skills masterclass with James Gall, another Surbiton and GB player. This ensured that this event was an experience that would not be forgotten by O.L.I’s team in a hurry.

I would like to congratulate Holly, Matthew, Davut, Roshni, Rhiannon, Austin, Clement and Charlie on their excellent effort, performances and conduct throughout the competition. Also, many thanks to the parents and carers who provided travel for the participating children going both to and from the venue.