Sporting Caps
Congratulations to the following students on receiving their sporting caps:
First XV Rugby
Lucas Hale made his debut in last year's season against Mount Manuga College and then played 11 further games as Year 11. A powerful midfield back with plenty of potential saw him selected for the Waikato Harlequins U17 team this year. An injury in this year's preseason halted his progress. However, the latter part saw him come back bigger and better, which supported his First XV award as Most Promising Player. We look forward to Lucas returning next year as a key senior player.
Lachie Mollard made his debut against Mount Maunganui College also in last year's preseason match. But injury stopped more opportunities until the later part of the season. This year Lachie has been a key part of our group playing in several positions and was always putting th team first. Versatility is key to Lachie's success and he was rewarded by being presented the Sportsmanship Cup at the First XV Awards Dinner. Lachie will play a key role next season, particularly with his size and strength and overall leadership.
First XI Girls' Football
Hunter Scott has played a total of 50 games. She has been a valuable member of the team since Year 11 and has attended their last three winter tournaments. Hunter has grown so much as a player in her time on the squad. She is always there and ready to play even when we are struggling for numbers. Her dedication to stepping up when needed has been instrumental to the team over the last three years.
Aimee Steele has played a total of 35 games. She started in Year 12 and has played relentlessly, even through sickness at tournament week, to get her to 35 games. She epitomises commitment and dedication. She is critical to the midfield and especially transitioning the ball from defence to attack.
Lucy Steele has played a total of 42 games. She also started in Year 12 with her sister Aimee. Lucy has really stepped up this year, taking over as captain for winter tournament week, where we saw her leadership skills shine. Lucy is the silent assassin on the field, she makes running look easy and is always ready for a pass or to defend.
Sophie Lee has played a total of 43 games in her two years on the team. She has been a crucial part of our defence for the past two years. Her corner kicks have helped to set up many goals this year. Sophie is great at keeping the conversation going on the pitch. She is a reliable and dedicated member of the team who has continued to step up each year and help with the organisation.
Boh Williams has played a total of 38 games. Boh is one of our wing players who leads by example on and off the pitch and is always giving the game 100%. Boh received the most improved player in her first year on the team, and she has only continued to go from strength to strength. Her improvement is a testament to her dedication, showing that with practice, you can master any skill.
Amelia Mallet has played a total of 41 games in her two seasons. Amelia reads the game well and plays the ball beautifully through to others. She also counter-attacks strongly and effectively. Her football skills and willingness to give 110% on the field is an asset to the team.
Ruby Macklow has played a total of 40 games. She is a hardworking striker who presses the defence relentlessly. She is fearless! Her determination and courage mean she wins the 50/50 challenges and puts her body on the line for the team. She plays courageous even through injuries and illnesses and still manages to be the top goal scorer for a second year in a row.
First XI Girls' Hockey
After quite a remarkable debut seasoning Year 11, Paige Hopping has embraced the challenge of a completely new position this year and has excelled in her role. Her contributions have significantly enhanced our performance, particularly with the go-forward she has given the left-hand side. Her determination, never-give-up attitude and ability to keep pushing even when something hasn't gone her way are outstanding. We look forward to seeing how much Paige will continue to grow as a player next season.
Zara Brangwynne has shown significant improvement over the past two seasons in the First XI Hockey. This year, she has been a dependable centre-back, anchoring the defensive plays. She has been able to keep her calm and approach the last line of defence moments with poise and grace. Zara's dedication and work ethic are unparalleled; she constantly gives her all in every match. Her commitment, diligence and drive service are exemplary models for teammates.
After debuting as a striker in 2023, Hayley Hanna has adapted to a new position as a half this year with enthusiasm. She responds well to feedback and has made notable improvements in her game, especially in her ability to strike the ball effectively, earning her the nickname Hayley "The Tonker" Hannah during winter tournament week this year. She has been a key member of our right-hand side offensively often being the starting point of our attacking play. She has excellent vision for the game, finding gaps in the opposition's defence to put the ball through to our strike line.
Iona Martynoga has been an incredibly adaptable player, taking on various roles within the First XI Girls' Hockey Team. Known for her tenacity and feisty nature, she consistently puts her body on the line for the good of the team. She has grown in her mental approach to the game, displaying calm and composure in tricky situations. Her clutch defensive performances over the past few seasons have been crucial to the team's success. She is incredibly brave as is a very competent penalty defensive runner, striking fear into the hearts of many an opposition hitter.
Scarlett Munro has grown significantly in her role as a First XI Team member over the past two seasons. Her powerful hitting has proven invaluable, rescuing the team on numerous occasions both defensively and offensively. She approaches every situation both on and off the field with a positive attitude, always striving to improve her play and never let a mistake get her down, preferring to use these situations as learnings for the future. Scarlett's sense of humour and authenticity contribute hugely to the teams culture, always able to find the silver lining and help everyone have a laugh.
First XI Boys' Hockey
Tanay Mistry has been a member of the First XI Hockey Team since 2023. He is an attacking player who brings immense speed to the team's striker line. Tanay often leaves defenders as he powers past them down the sideline. He is developing into an effective pressing player who puts opposition outletters under pressure consistently. He is a humble hard working team member who always gives his best efforts no matter the situation. He is a valuable part of the First XI Boys' Hockey Team who played an important role in the final games of the season. As a Year 12, Tanay has another season to further develop and will no doubt be relied upon more and more in 2025.
Liam Joll has been a member of the First XI Boys' Hockey since returning from Tihoi Venture School at the end of Term 2 in 2023. Over the past season and a half he has become an integral part of the defensive line. He is an incredibly hardworking and devoted member of the team, always looking for ways to improve his skill set. Liam reads the game well and helps organise the structure of the defensive group. His vision when in possession of the ball sets others up in strong attacking positions. Liam will continue to be a key member of the team for the next two years and has a bright future ahead of him.
Willem Groenendjk has been a member of the First XI Boys' Hockey Team for two years. An attacking player, he positions himself well and as a result often provides the final touch for well constructed team goals. Willem is a hard worker on the field and has grown in confidence as he has played more games. Additionally, his positioning in the press provides a high quality first layer to the team's defensive structure. Willem is a clever player who actively applies team tactics and utilises his strengths on the field.
George MacDonald has been a member of the First XI since 2023. Over the last two years, he has developed into a quality midfielder with a high level of basic skills. He occupies space well and maintains possession under pressure from the opposition. He works hard defensively and organises those around him when needed. George is quickly becoming a crucial member of the team, playing large minutes and in important games. This will continue next year where he will be relied upon as an experienced player by others in the team.
Noah Candelaria has been a member of the First XI hockey since the beginning of 2023. Even as a junior member of the team, Noah is relied upon as a key member of the team's defence. As a centre-back he offers superb vision and outletting ability. His defensive prowess when shutting down opposition attacks has been key to many of the team's results this season. Noah is building his leadership skills and will no doubt find himself looked up to by others in the coming seasons. He is dedicated, passionate and ambitious and has a bright future ahead of him on the hockey turf. As a Year 10, this is an impressive achievement.
Girls' Lacrosse
Lucy Steel has been a key player for the St Paul's Lacrosse Team, excelling as a midfielder. She has been a consistent goal scorer and has shown strong dedication and leadership on and off the field. Her commitment to the sport and her teammates has been instrumental in the success and growth of the programme at school. This year, Lucy's talents have been recognised with her earning a spot on the Waikato U18 Lacrosse Team. Her selection is a testament to her hard work, skill, and passion for the game. She has her sights set on trialling for the NZ Lacrosse Squad that will attend the next Olympic Games.
Natalya Walker-Riggins is a standout athlete and captain of the St Paul's Lacrosse Team and has made many valuable contributions to the sport. As a dynamic midfielder, Natalya has been a driving force behind the team's success, consistently demonstrating her leadership skills on and off the field. Throughout the 2024 season, she has captained the side with resilience, always bringing her team off the field with smiles, even when the scoreline wasn't in their favour. Her impressive offensive play often leads the team to victory, highlighting her as a key player in every match. This year Natalya, talents have been recognised with her earning a spot on the Waikato U18 Lacrosse Team. She has been instrumental in building the girls team, and always shows up consistent in every match.
Premier Girls' Netball
Caitlin Foote has been a member of the Premier Netball Team for two seasons. She is a formidable defender, consistently dominating he defensive end of the group with her ability to tip the ball and intercept the passes. Her instinctive ballhunting skills and sharp anticipation enable her to secure numerous turnovers, making her key to defence in the team. Caitlin was in the Hamilton City U18 representative team this year and she was selected to attend the National Development Camp in January. She has recently been selected in the 'Magic in the Making' Camp for Waikato Bay of Plenty Netball.
