Hockey teams reach final stages of two national competitons

YOUNG hockey players have hit their school's highest point to date after reaching the final stages of two national competitions.

The U13s team from Ripon Grammar School triumphed in an area tournament then won all their North East group matches to qualify for the Northern region semi finals of the national In2 Hockey tournament.

They just missed out on a place in the national finals after being beaten by Leeds Grammar School by just 1-0.

Meanwhile, the U14s squad from Ripon Grammar School also won their area tournament, were runners-up in the North East semi finals and came seventh nationally.

Head of PE and games Siobhan Gilfillan said: "This was the furthest we have ever reached for both age groups. The girls played against a number of independent schools so we were delighted to compete well at such a high level.

"The U13s put in a very creditable performance against Leeds, especially since we were without playmaker Lucy Williams, who was injured."

Miss Gilfillan said the teams' standards were continually improving thanks to the Grammar School's facilities.

"Having an AstroTurf pitch means the girls can train in all weathers and we have very good links with local hockey clubs including Thirsk," she added.