Academy hockey teams reflect on successful year

BALLYMENA Academy hockey teams recently refelcted another successful campaign with their end-of-year awards night.

Among the achievements celebrated were the First XI losing only one game. They reached the quarter-final of the Schools’ Cup, losing on penalties to Omagh Academy, and also finished runners-up in the Derry and Antrim League.

The under-13 A and under-14 A teams managed to go one better, each winning their Derry and Antrim leagues.

One of the major highlights of the year was the junior hockey tour to Holland, which was enjoyed by everyone.

Individually, Rachel Lightbody was on the Ulster team which won the inter-provincial series, and she also played in the UK School Games.

Beth Dinsmore captained the Ulster under-18 B team, while Zara Thompson played in the Ulster under-16 B squad.

Three other girls - Sara Allen, Emma Kernohan and Rhianna Campbell - are to attend the final Ulster under-16 trials.

The end of season awards also gave the school the opportunity to thank all their sponsors, parents and everyone who helped out. The prizewinners were:

Most improved player: U12 - Rebecca Gray; U13 - Rhianna Campbell; U14 - Laura McKendry.

U12 Top goalscorer - Sarah Louise Dennis.

Players of the year : U12 - Leah Paul & Hannah Henderson; U13 - Emma Kernohan; U14 - Jessica Duncan; 4th XI - Ashlea Whann & Claire Hoy; 3rd XI - Claire Hayes; 2B XI - Judith Hanna; 2A XI - Catherine McCracken; 1st XI - Emma Gillespie.

1st XI young player of the year - Rebecca McCluggage.

Jackie McWilliams Cup - Katherine Allen.