Nearly 500 Compete In Hockey Tournament
Field hockey fever swept across Bermuda this month as nearly 500 students from primary and middle schools competed in the annual interschool field hockey tournament.
A spokesperson said, “A collaboration between the Bermuda Hockey Federation [BHF] and the Bermuda School Sports Federation [BSSF], the event brought together young athletes from both public and private schools in a celebration of sportsmanship and competition.
“The tournament, featuring fast-paced 6-a-side games, showcased the island’s up-and-coming field hockey talent. Thanks to the BHF’s initiative, every participating school received field hockey sticks, ensuring that the sport is introduced and taught in Physical Education classes across the island. This effort is part of a larger push to grow field hockey at the grassroots level, giving students the opportunity to learn and fall in love with the game.
“This year’s tournament not only highlighted the talent and enthusiasm of Bermuda’s youth but also underscored the growing popularity of field hockey across the island. With continued support from the BHF and BSSF, the sport is sure to flourish in schools and beyond.
“The collaboration between these two organizations is helping to build a foundation for future field hockey stars, ensuring that the sport will remain a vibrant part of Bermuda’s athletic culture for years to come.
“The Primary Tournaments featured round robin games and a stickwork competition, with the following winners taking home their own sticks and a free membership for a term to the BHF programs;
“1st - Eva Desjardins – Somersfield Academy
“2nd - Talaya Sousa - Warwick Academy
“3rd - Trevor Mills – Somersfield Academy, Cla Valli – Somersfield Academy, Nathan Haigh - Mount Saint Agnes Academy, and Rohan Dill Pedro - Elliott Primary.
“In the Middle School Competitive Tournament, teams from MSA, Francis Patton, Somersfield, and Warwick showcased their skills, with Warwick Academy achieving a clean sweep, winning on penalties in both the girls’ and boys’ divisions. Runners-up for the girls were MSA, while the boys triumphed over Somersfield.
“The energy and enthusiasm displayed during the tournament affirm that Bermuda’s future in field hockey is bright!
“The success of this year’s tournament was made possible by the collective efforts of the BHF community. Senior Women’s National Team players and dedicated members of the BHF volunteered to umpire all the games, offering their expertise and enthusiasm to ensure a fair and exciting competition.”
“It’s incredible to see so many young players giving it their all on the field,” said Liz Stewart “Volunteering as an umpire has been a rewarding experience. Watching these students grow in their skills and passion for the sport makes me proud to be part of the field hockey community in Bermuda.”
A spokesperson added, “While the primary and middle school tournaments have wrapped up with impressive performances from all teams, the excitement continues to build for the senior school tournament, scheduled for January. Schools interested in receiving coaching assistance from the BHF community can reach out to Megan Troake at mtroake@somersfield.bm.
“The BHF remains committed to nurturing the next generation of field hockey players, offering structured training programs for various age groups. Sessions for 5-7-year-olds are held on Saturdays from 1:00-2:00, 8-11-year-olds from 2:00-3:30, and 12-16-year-olds on Fridays from 6:00-7:00 and Saturdays from 3:30-4:30. Registration for these programs can be completed on the website racedayworld/clinicprograms.”
