The 2024 Girls’ U11 A hockey season got off to a flying start with a season opener at London's Olympic Park, led by Haileybury school’s Director of Hockey and former USA international, Mr Rob Schilling.
The girls took part in a hockey festival with a handful of other schools which involved expert coaching and matches, culminating in our girls watching part of Haileybury's 1st XI hockey mentors' masterclass match under the floodlights.
Mr Schilling, ably assisted by Haileybury’s 1st XI players, put all the girls through their paces during the session. They practised techniques and drills and soaked up the atmosphere of the prestigious surroundings of the Olympic Park, which was host to the 2018 Women’s Hockey World Cup.
They also worked on slap hits, v-drags and passes, as well as focusing on specific goal-keeping drills. The girls then played in a friendly but competitive series of tournament-style matches.
"The girls worked hard to develop their hockey skills as part of their preparation for the season ahead. It was an excellent start to their hockey season!"