By Captains Georgina Shotter and Paige Blake
Just like many other sports, Covid-19 has altered the way our 2020 hockey season has played out. However, within the short time we have had to train and play, the team has put out an amazing effort against quality opposition. In a tough game against a strong Rangitoto side, the team successfully defended our title as North Harbour Champions for the third year in a row.
Although we have been faced with some rough challenges this season, and the harsh reality of not being able to attend Federation Cup (nationals) as well as competing in the Auckland competition, we have proven as a team that we can work together and overcome the challenges we are faced with. The improvement from all members of the team, including the six new girls who came into the squad, shows the depth of skill level and hockey players we have here at Westlake Girls.
We have scored a total of 56 goals this year, whilst only conceding three, and these goals were scored by 12 different girls from our 16-player squad. This shows how well we came together as a squad and worked cohesively this season because everyone has made a huge impact on the success we have had this season. Sending off our senior girls is going to be a bit different this year without the high of Nationals to end on, but nonetheless we are extremely proud of the leadership and strength of these girls and wish them all the best for their futures and know they will achieve great things.
A special mention to our coaching/management team who have helped us immensely with the outcome of the season even through the constant changes due to Covid-19. We are looking forward to the 2021 season and hope to improve as a team and continue the success of the Westlake Girls 1st XI hockey team.