A hockey adventure with the Raphael House Girls first XI.

Eight hours in a van (interspersed with pie breaks) landed us in Gisborne's Pak ‘n’ Save where our team put our budgeting skills to the test. Every morning, we woke at seven for a brisk walk on the beach, ate breakfast, and drove to the turf to observe the other team's tactics and strategize. Next, we warmed up and had a dance circle to hype ourselves up for the intense game ahead — our go to being ‘Helikopter 117’.

We won three games and lost two, placing 6th out of 8 teams of the North Islands P2 and P3 girls' hockey teams. By the last game, our team was knackered, with a broken finger, some intense cramps, shin splints, and bruised wrists. But we kept our spirits alive after the games with swimming, hot pools, ice cream and relaxation. Some of the skills we exercised during the tournament were budgeting, communication, patience, independence, collaboration, and how to give constructive criticism whilst supporting our teammates. Overall, the tournament has connected our team, made us stronger and given us all a greater understanding of each other both on and off the turf.

A huge thank you to Mario, for your unwavering support, encouragement and clear dedicated passion for the team and hockey. To Vanya, for your contagious positivity and selfless dedication to the team, Vanya did the whole team’s dirty washing, which shows just how committed she is! To Liz, for the much-needed constructive criticism and loud cheering on the side-line. Thanks to Tracey, for umpiring our games, and giving us feedback and insight on the other teams. A big thanks to Irene, for giving us updates and organizing hoodies, and taking care of the often-overlooked necessities for the tournament. And last but not least to Mya, our wonderful team captain who led us through trial and triumph and kept spirits alive. Without you, this tournament would not have been possible and not nearly as fun and constructive.  

by Athena Clark (C10)