Cundall claim national hockey title

The school, based between Ripon and Thirsk, triumphed against tough opposition from across the country before clinching the title in the final after a dominant performance against a strong Hull Collegiate side, beating the travelling East Yorkshire team in an all Yorkshire final 3-1.

The side, who only conceded one goal throughout the tournament, were presented with the trophy by Phil Roper, Wimbledon and GB Hockey international.

Head of Girls Games at Cundall Manor School, Louise Bessey, said: “I am absolutely delighted by the performance the girls put in to achieve this prestigious title. This team are a great balance of experience and enthusiasm for a game you can see they love.”

The Cundall side fielded several county players and combined players from the U12 and U13 sides.

The team beat Malvern St James from Worcestershire 4-0 in the opening game before overcoming a strong Ballard side 2-0 to progress to the knock stages. En route to the final the North Yorkshire youngsters fought hard to beat Lingfield School 1-0 in the quarter final before meeting Ballard again in the semi-final.

Mrs Bessey added: “The team performed exceptionally throughout the tournament. Hannah Barker put away her opportunities in front of goal with a calm conviction and the defence held their own with an outstanding back line, only conceding one goal all day.”

The national win at the ISA championship comes hot on the heels of the school being shortlisted for the Independent Schools Association Award for Outstanding Achievement in Sport.