On the back of winning the latest U12 Boys triangular tournament at College Meadow the previous week, the BOEHC Dragons travelled down early to Canterbury along with the U10s to take part in the Kent In2Hockey tournament. This was the first time the club has entered the event in several years. As the first since we restarted the junior section 3 seasons ago this was to prove a good test for the boys who have continued to impress with their progress this season.

7x12 minute games throughout the day with large breaks in between did not allow the team to gather momentum, but no excuses as this was the same for all clubs on an extremely well run event by Kent Hockey and Canterbury HC. It was valuable experience for future years and emphasised the need to attack at pace and defend as a team as going ahead early is such an advantage in these short games.

The boys did themselves, their parents and the club proud as they played positively and used all the skills they've learnt in coaching sessions this season. Whilst they may not have felt it immediately at the time, having lost 6 and 1 won, when they huddled after the last game to talk about how the day went, they all said how much they enjoyed taking part. In only 2 of the games we felt the boys came up against sides much more experienced in Canterbury and Marden and they showed us how speed, accurate passing and strong early shooting wins games. Tunbridge Wells in our last game also played well and we lost shape and failed to chase back when losing the ball. The other games lost were very close and could have gone either way, the boys were unlucky. Our consolation was a win in our 2nd game against local rivals BromBecks.

Ben W made some great saves in goal. Will G showed maturity in defence and owned the sweeper role. Lorcan plays the 7 a side format really well getting the ball forward out of defence and starting attacking play. Joe Buss was a solid left half breaking down play and finding space out wide taking pressure of the defence. Malachy used his brilliant cut backs to fool defenders and start attacks. Federico showed his value as a utility player being able to play across the midfield or in defence when needed and reads the game well. Will L made a nuisance of himself on the right and made quick breaks after winning balls off the oppo. Fergus played in all positions except GK at some point during the tournament and threw himself on the goal line at both ends for the team. Luke battled upfront, made great runs and troubled all the sides he faced. Tom Buckle didn't stop hustling, tackling and breaking down the oppo's attacks both as centre half or defender and made strong passes going forward.

Whilst some of the boys will move up to u14 next season, a real positive is that others will still be available for this tournament next year and with another year of experience we are confident of improved results. Additionally there is strong competition for places which will push us on.

Thanks as always to Amanda for coordinating, to parents for their positive support and special thanks to Graham Green for umpiring.

A proud coach.

Ravi.