Tavistock Hockey Club Under 10 girls took part in the Devon County Championships in Tiverton last Sunday  (March 6) securing second place.

The round robin format saw the squad of eight girls compete in six games, winning their first five against ISCA B, Taw Valley, Teign, Exe and Tiverton — scoring 18 without conceding a single goal, before losing 0-3 to ISCA A, in the tournament decider.

Debutant keeper Ava McDowell grew in confidence as the day went on and showed excellent pad work when under pressure.  The team played with one sweeping defender — Tiggy Hutchins, who was strong in the tackling, and decision making — distributing the ball well and turning defence into attack brilliantly.

Bea Rainsbury and Lillia Pocknel controlled central midfield, taking the pressure off their team mates with excellent individual skills and thoughtful passing.

The attack rotated around four players — Juno Anderson-Bickley and Isla Newton upfront, and Connie Weaver and Pippa Hasbrig-Hartley on the wings.

All four demonstrated excellent pace and put some great passing combinations together that posed a constant goal threat.

With a final score card of five games won and the single loss, the Tavistock girls secured second place and are now headed to the South West Regional finals in Bristol next month.

The girls’ attitude typified the Tavistock Hockey Club approach — 100% effort, team spirit & togetherness, but most of all keeping it fun.

Tavistock Hockey Club host junior training on Thursday nights at the Mount Kelly astro, and the ethos of the club is inclusion and fun!