Caption
Back row from left: Belinda Burton (Goalkeeper), Tahlia Rekunow, Ali McMillan, Emma Barwick, Jess Burey, Elise Matheson, Britt Parker, Brianna Sutton, Teagan Cleanthous and Paul Eichorn (Coach). Front row from left: Katrina Rekunow, Natalie Waters, Brooke Monley, Georgina Cleanthous, Jacko Burton and Clare Eichorn.
The Hockey New England (HNE) U18 girls travelled to Newcastle last month to contest the B Division state championships. Being seeded eight in this division after last year’s campaign the team was determined to improve on their standing.
This year’s team was a young side with only two players ineligible to play in this age division next year. The inexperience showed in their first game as they were defeated 5-2 by Central Coast with all the coast goals coming from set plays.
The HNE girls rebounded with two draws against Illawarra and Manning Valley. Needing a big win to qualify for the semi-finals the team defeated Southern Highlands 6-0.
This was as far as the team progressed as they were given a hockey lesson by South Coast.
The team finished fourth in their division which was a great effort. Following the final game the team awards of player’s player were presented to Belinda Burton and coaches’ award to Katrina Rekunow.
Katrina was also rewarded for her efforts by being selected in the HNSW U18’s state team squad.
