It has been a vintage year for Rydal Penrhos hockey, highlighted by an impressive performance at the national finals in Cardiff.
Three of our teams advanced to the finals, with the Boys’ First Team achieving an extraordinary milestone by securing back-to-back titles. This remarkable success underscores the talent and dedication of our pupils, both on and off the field.
As a school, we take immense pride in our pupils’ achievements while representing Rydal Penrhos. However, we are equally proud of their success beyond the school grounds, as they thrive in their club, regional, and national commitments.
This year, Rydal Penrhos pupils have played pivotal roles in the triumphs of Eirias Hockey Club, contributing significantly to the Ladies First Team’s success in the Ladies Welsh Cup.
In a decisive semi-final match against Northop Hall, the Eirias Ladies First Team claimed a commanding 6-1 victory. Year 10 pupil Lily Copeland delivered a standout performance, scoring a hat-trick. She was joined by her fellow Rydal Penrhos pupils—Year 10’s Charlotte Payne and Year 13’s Eve Durrans and Lily Davies.
For Eve and Lily, this semi-final match was particularly poignant as it marked their final appearance before their A-Level exams and subsequent university studies. Both pupils have served as Deputy Heads of School, exemplifying leadership both on and off the pitch.
The Eirias U16 team also showcased their skill and determination in the Welsh Cup Finals held in Welshpool. Competing in a four-team round-robin tournament, they began with a resounding 6-0 victory over Bangor City, bolstered by Lily Copeland’s four-goal performance, including a quickfire first-half hat-trick.
Their second match against the pre-tournament favourites, Whitchurch, saw them take a 1-0 lead at halftime. Following a spirited comeback from Whitchurch, the match ended in a 1-1 draw, leaving Eirias at the top of the table after two games.
The final match against Penarth was challenging, and despite a valiant effort, Eirias fell 3-0, securing a commendable third place and a bronze medal in the competition.
Our pupils’ contributions extend to other age groups within Eirias Hockey Club as well. In the U12 Boys and U14 Girls teams, Rydal Penrhos pupils have been key players. Ethan Pollard, Freddie Griffin, Harrison Simmonds, and Harrison Hogan represented the U12s, while Carys Dougherty, Ella Payne, Lexi-May Williams, and Violet Cardoso-Dowen played pivotal roles in the U14s.
Rydal Penrhos is incredibly proud of our pupils’ dedication and achievements in hockey, both for the school and their local club. Their passion and commitment to the sport are evident, and we look forward to seeing even more success in the months and years ahead.
