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Girls Win Silver at National Hockey Championships

Olivia Gamble, Madi Woods, Jorja Squiers and Bella Connelly

We’d like to congratulate a number of our students who attended the National Hockey Championships across Australia over the holidays.

Madi Woods (Year 9), Bella Connelly (Year 10) and staff member Olivia Gamble were in Newcastle for the Under 15 Hockey. The girls were excited to come home with a silver medal. Unfortunately, Year 9 student Jorja Squiers who was also selected to play was unable to travel due to COVID.

Assistant Coach, Olivia Gamble with some last minute words for goalkeeper Madi

Olivia, who was there in her position as assistant coach to the Under 15 team said, “The Santa Maria students were fantastic representatives for the College at the national competition. They were vital in our defensive team. Bella played as a full back for the duration of the tournament and held the defence together at the back. Madi was one of our goalkeepers for the tournament. Our team had one of the lowest numbers of goals conceded for the tournament, which was a testament to our goalkeepers’ performances.”

Madi plays for Melville and has been playing hockey for about eight years. She loves hockey because it’s a team sport that allows her to have fun with her friends and socialise with new people. “Hockey for me is very engaging as you are with the community, and there are so many opportunities.”

Bella plays for Aquinas Reds and has been playing since she was in Kindy! She’s hoping to continue to grow as a player and make state teams.

Jorja Squiers receiving her playing shirt from members of the Australian Womens Hockey team.

Jorja also plays for Aquinas Reds and has been playing since about Year 3. She was disappointed to miss out on the competition. She’s inspired by Georgia Wilson, who plays for the WA Diamonds and who has also played for the Hockeyroos. “She has pushed her way to the top. She’s had many injuries and disappointments throughout her hockey career, but she hasn’t given up, she has persevered.”

Congratulations also to Alicia Tory (Year 12) and Scarlett Huston (Year 11) who competed in Cairns at the U18 Championships. The team came fourth. Well done, girls.

StephanieTory and Scarlett Huston after their selection to play in the U18s team

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