The Nayland Girls' Hockey team had a successful tournament in Nelson last week, holding their own against some formidable opposition.

The girls came sixth overall, with their final placing not fully reflective of some close matches that could've gone either way. They chalked up two wins against some well-regarded Christchurch teams: Saint Margarets College and Papanui High School. They also drew twice, against Marlborough Girls and Christchurch Girls (who came second overall in the tournament.) They also had two losses, one of which came down to a penalty shoot-out. Captain Penelope Taulafo was also the second-highest points scorer in the tournament.

The team's effort is even more noteworthy due to the relative youth of the team, with the majority of them still in the junior school. Penelope said that playing against largely older opposition was not something that phased them.

“It was alright because we usually play for our clubs. The divisions we play in have older people," she said.

She listed one of the highlights as beating some of the more well-favoured opposition teams.

"The game against Saint Margarets was the best because we all gelled together. It was just a good game."

Coach Nikki Webb was impressed at how the girls progressed throughout the tournament. 

"The Nayland girls built on their learnings throughout the week. The girls showed character and determination against some strong opposition," Nikki said. "A key highlight was the amount of juniors participating, learning and thriving."

Nikki was excited about the future of girls' hockey at Nayland College.

"Although Nayland does not have a high number of hockey players the quality is outstanding," she said. "Nayland College can expect great things from the girls as individuals and as a team. As a coach who has been involved in hockey at all levels, I can say the girls were a pleasure. Their willingness to deliver, work together and show a never say die attitude is exciting."