After defeating Ysgol Glantaf in the Cardiff & Vale of Glamorgan Schools' Final last month, the Under 18 Hockey Team travelled to Swansea University on Thursday 5th March to take part in the Hockey Wales National Finals. Here, they were joined by representatives from eight different regions of Wales. During the group stages, Howell's put together a string of excellent victories and defeated Gower College 5-0 (Afan Nedd Tawe), Ysgol Cwm Rhymni 3-0 (Glamorgan Valleys) and Ysgol Tryfan 2-1 (Eryri), with goals coming from many different sources. As winners of Pool B, Howell's set up a semi-final encounter with the runners-up of Pool A (Ysgol Bro Dinefwr; Dyfed) in what proved to be a rematch of last year's Under 16 national semi-final. This proved to be their best performance of the day as they raced out to a big lead and held on for an impressive 5-0 triumph. With fellow Pool B qualifiers Ysgol Tryfan defeating Pool A winners Ysgol Uwchradd Caereinion (Powys) in a penalty shootout in the second semi-final, it was familiar opposition for Howell's in the final. After controlling the ball and dictating the play for most of the game, Howell's deservedly ran out 1-0 winners and were crowned Under 18 National Champions. A huge well done to all involved in what has proved to be another hugely successful year on the hockey pitch. Many members of this team can now add the Under 18 National title to the Under 14 and Under 16 titles, as well as the GDST Under 15 and Under 18 championships that they have won during their illustrious time at school.
Squad:
Ffion H (GK), Annabelle W, Robyn D, Georgia M-P, Maisie R, Lily R (C), Katie G, Alicia L, Ellie M, Frances DT, Pascha A, Ellie L, Elin J, Rebecca L, Carys M