Young talent shines as school competitions conclude in Brecon
Long and hard-fought journeys came to a close last month as champions were crowned in Hoci Cymru’s schools’ competitions.
The finals brought together some excellent quality from schools across Wales as finalists descended onto Christ College Brecon, with new champions from U12 all the way up to U18 categories announced.
Formats across the categories varied, as some finals were decided in groups while others went to straight knockout rounds.
At U12 level, Ysgol Glantaf won their fifth Schoolboys title and their first for seven years as they maintained a 100% record to storm to victory.
The Schoolgirls title was claimed by Howell’s for the first time since 2022 as they went unbeaten in the finals, crucially overcoming Monmouth Girls 2-1 in the process.
The U14 Schoolboys title was claimed by hosts Christ College Brecon, despite the side only scoring six in the finals. Two 2-1 wins and a 2-0 victory to boot was enough to secure their third title, however.
On the girls’ side, Cathedral School were dominant, winning all three of their games, scoring 11 and conceding just once on their way to their first ever title.
Competition was tight in the U16 Schoolboys, as Bishopston’s tally of five goals was enough to win all three of their fixtures and see them earn their second consecutive title.
Meanwhile, the U16 Schoolgirls tournament was concluded with a knockout format. Monmouth Girls were crowned champions for the very first time as they beat Cathedral School 2-1 before edging Brynhyfryd to the title with a 2-0 win.
We were treated to some standout quality and competition in the U18 competitions, as hosts Christ College Brecon took both titles.
In the Schoolboys, solid defence was the order of the day as 3-0 and 2-1 wins to accompany a goalless draw were enough to earn a first title since 2016, when they had just completed a three-peat.
Their colleagues were also successful on the girls’ side of the competition, as three wins and two draws saw Christ College Brecon earn a first ever title.
Finals full of drama and quality provided great entertainment for spectators throughout the events and, importantly, promised a bright future for Welsh hockey.
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