AKS U11 Hockey team travelled to the idyllic setting of Sedbergh to compete against the other top hockey schools in the North West. Realising the importance of a strong start, the team comfortably won their first game which gave them the confidence and impetus for the following matches. The strongest challenge came in the penultimate match of the tournament when AKS played against the only other team who were also undefeated, Manchester High. The game was a battle of attrition from the start with Manchetser taking the lead. The team dug deep and competed well, fighting for every ball and soon got back on level terms. The game looked destined for a draw until a penalty shuffle was expertly dispatched to maintain AKS’ undefeated run.
With top spot to play for the final match was against local rivals, Kirkham, which gave an extra incentive to go through the tournament unbeaten. The girls showed so much determination despite being exhausted. Every AKS attempt was thwarted as the clock counted down. With just 13 seconds left, a goal mouth scramble finally ended in an AKS goal, meaning the team became the In2Hockey North West Champions, winning every match, scoring 21 goals and only conceding 3.
Every one of the squad played the best hockey that they have ever played for AKS, both as an individual and as a team. They worked together and for each other and should be proud of this fantastic achievement. A wonderful way to end the season.