The Copthill Gymnastics Squad

ISA NATIONAL CHAMPIONS

Junior Girls Hockey. Lee Valley, London Olympic Park

Thursday 23rd November 2017

As I sit writing this report the grin still resides on my face! National Champions!!!!! I have never felt more proud of a group of children. When a squad put all the practice and hard work onto the field, perform as a solid team with no individuals, and play every minute with impeccable attitude, dedication and above all a huge smile..... What more can a coach ask for?!

 The girls played 8 games across the day. 3 in their initial pool, where they finished top with a 3-0, 2-0 and 0-0. That then put us into the Cup competition where we had a 3-0, 1-0 and 0-0. It was a nail biting wait to see if we made the Final. When they announced it we all let out a huge cheer; players, coaches and parents! We met Ballard in the final, and we knew it was going to be a tough game as they had scored a large number of goals in their previous two matches. That didn't matter though, we had a game plan, and if we stuck to playing Copthill Hockey we would be fine.

The girls worked so hard, every single player did their job, fulfilled their role and left their heart on the pitch. They scored first, and it just showed the character of the girls to keep their heads high and focus on scoring ourselves. Our goals came from a wonderful short corner, something the girls have practised over and over and it paid off! We had another few good chances but struggled to convert, we dominated possession and controlled the attack.

At full time it was 1-1 and it remained that way after extra time. The decision was made with Ballard and the ISA tournament organisers that we would not go to penalty shuffles due to the age of the girls. We are striving to inspire and enthuse the girls to play hockey and stay active, and a negative experience in a penalty situation could really affect that in their future.

So the announcement was given, Copthill and Ballard are joint ISA National Champions at U11 Girls Hockey. The girls cheered, then jumped up and down and cheered some more. Closely followed by reminding me I promised them McDonalds if they won!

It was a superb day, one that I hope everyone involved with wont forget for a long time. Well done to the girls and thank you to each and everyone of the supporters.