​The future is bright for RGS hockey

In the first of a series of behind-the-scenes reports on sport at RGS, EMILIA SAMPLE examines what lies behind the success of the RGS First XI girls’ hockey team.

THE motivation and the determination of all the hockey players at the start of term has been admirable and this has led to several successes and a great hockey culture to kickstart the new season.

The Ripon Grammar XI team kicked off the season impressively with an 8-0 victory over St Peter’s, highlighted by a hat-trick from Lexi, two goals from Tara, and crucial goals from Aimee, Lottie and Libby.

Player of the Match Tara said, “I was overwhelmed with support from my new teammates”.

They kept the momentum going with a tough 2-1 victory against Ampleforth, with goals from Lexi and Aimee, who also earned a well-deserved Player of the Match.

Captain Katie Wilkinson expressed how proud she feels to lead the team this year and highlighted the importance of strong friendships off the pitch, which translate into teamwork during matches.

Katie described the team as ‘resilient, energetic and enjoyable’, adding “They have proved that when they all work together, they can really put up a fight against good teams.”

Katie added, “Off the pitch we all get on really well which also helps us on the pitch to play as a whole team, and it’s really built up our team spirit which will help us through more difficult matches. When things don’t go to plan, we are still enjoying the match.”

She also promised to value everyone’s opinions and, if anyone has feedback after the match, to listen to their opinions and make sure everyone is heard.

Effective communication has been key to the team’s early success this season. On the pitch, players like Lottie, Lexi, Aimee and Katie work seamlessly together, using clear and constant communication to create goal-scoring opportunities and maintain a solid defensive structure.

Their ability to anticipate each other’s movements and coordinate plays has been a major factor in controlling matches.

Meanwhile, goalkeeper Oonagh’s confident presence and vocal leadership from the back has further strengthened the defence, giving the team the assurance they need to play both with ambition and resilience.

Beyond the pitch, Katie reflects on the valuable lessons hockey has taught her, such as teamwork and forming strong friendships with teammates she might not have met otherwise. Balancing schoolwork and sport, she sees hockey as both a passion and a vital outlet from academic pressures.

Coach Miss Mortimer praised the team’s motivation and determination at the start of the term, crediting their positive attitude for several early successes and a strong hockey ethos. She also thanked senior players for inspiring younger squads like the U12s and U13s.

With more fixtures on the horizon, including games against ­­­St Aidan’s and more indoor hockey sessions in collaboration with Queen Ethelburga’s, the future is bright for RGS hockey; the team is thriving on teamwork, leadership and a shared love for the game.

We look forward to more goals, victories and memorable moments both on and off the pitch!