HGS Hockey Success

Harrogate Grammar School Hockey Team Triumphs to Reach Yorkshire and Northeast Regional Finals

Thirteen students from Years 8 and 9 at Harrogate Grammar School have reached the Yorkshire and Northeast Regional Finals in the U14 Hockey Tournament, after a run of impressive performances built on teamwork, skill, and belief.

In the opening round, the team competed against nine other schools from across North Yorkshire. With only the top four teams progressing, HGS stood out not just for their results, but also as the only state school from the county to make it through to the Tier 3 Yorkshire Sub Area Finals.

That momentum continued at the next stage, hosted by the Grammar School at Leeds (GSAL). Harrogate Grammar went unbeaten, didn’t concede a goal, and topped the group. It was a team effort, with everyone contributing, particularly in defence, where a string of outstanding saves and disciplined organisation meant the team finished with a clean sheet.

Captain, Annabelle O. said:

“I am very proud of the team. In the first round, people expected that we would lose. We then started to win, and by the second round the team had started to develop confidence. We are excited about the Northeast Regional Final and look forward to competing with other great teams”.

The result means Harrogate Grammar School will represent the Yorkshire Sub Area in the Regional Finals on Tuesday 11 November.

Headteacher Neil Renton said:

“We are incredibly proud of our students for their hard work, commitment, and sportsmanship. We admire the courage and tenacity that students have shown and wish them every success in the regional finals. Thank you also to Mrs Oliver and Mr Crawshaw for coaching the team”.

Several parents were there to support the team and shared their reflections:

“I am really pleased that Harrogate Grammar is seeking to provide sporting competitive advantage, life chances and door openings to amazing experiences.”

– Mr Dewhurst, Parent

“I was so impressed with the whole team and coaches who have done a fantastic job representing the school. The girls showed huge commitment and effort. They ran further, faster and harder than their opponents and didn’t duck out of a single challenge.”