The Otago Boys' High School Hockey 1st XI had a successful week at the Johnson Cup in Cromwell during tournament week. With a young team, the goal was to make the final, qualify for the top tier tournament, and bring home the gold medal.

The boys had a solid start to the week with wins over North Island Schools Takapuna (3-0) and Taradale (2-1) to finish top of the pool. We then took care of Shirley Boys' (4-2) in the quarter final, before taking on Cashmere in the semifinal. Cashmere was a much more senior team, but our senior players, as well as our juniors, stepped up in the big game. It took until the full time whistle of the second extra time, for Captain Jack Pryde to put away a penalty stroke, to put us into the final.

The final was a different story. Like many finals, both teams felt the fatigue of a week of hockey, and let the occasion get the better of their nerves. Although we had beaten Southland Boys' 2-0 in an interschool fixture earlier in the year, it was Southland who managed to put away a penalty corner to take the final 1-0.

Although we didn't take the trophy home, by making the final we have earned our place back in the top tier tournament for 2018. It was a great way for the Year 13s and co-captains, Jack Pryde and Hugh Chapman, to finish off their time in the OBHS 1st XI. They led the team on the field, and helped to create such a positive and cohesive group of boys.

We also say goodbye to Dominik Meiss who has been with us from Germany for 2017. Playing at fullback, Dominik teamed up with Louis Holt to create a composed and effective duo at the back. It was awesome to have Dominik with us, and it will be sad to see him off in the next few days.

It is awesome to have the knowledge and experience of Jason Dungey as coach. As coach of the U18 Southern Boys, U21 Women, and assistant coach of the Southern Men's team, his commitment to hockey and to our boys is massive, and we really appreciate the time and effort he puts in.

It was a wonderful week away, and Cromwell provided a beautiful setting. The boys did their 'colds' after the game down at the lake, while taking in the surrounding snow-capped mountains. Although the few Cromwell activities were quickly experienced, the boys enjoyed each other's company and kept themselves entertained for the week. We had fantastic support from parents, which made for a special week away.

With most of the team returning in 2018, we look forward to continuing to build on a great end to the season.