1st Team vs IAPS at Bedes
U13A IAPS Hockey Sevens Qualifier – Bede’s
The U13A hockey team travelled to Bede’s to compete in the IAPS Hockey Sevens Regional Qualifier, facing a demanding schedule against high-quality opposition and producing a series of competitive and encouraging performances.
The tournament began strongly against Dulwich Cranbrook, in a fast-paced and physical opening match. Dulwich were strong on the ball and opened the scoring with a well-worked goal, but Holmewood responded immediately through a powerful drive and strike to equalise. Sustained attacking pressure followed, with another well-taken goal giving Holmewood a deserved 2–1 victory. Despite feeling pressure in the closing moments, the boys defended resolutely to see the game out.
Confidence carried into the second fixture against Skippers Hill, whom the boys had played the previous week. Holmewood dominated possession, played free-flowing hockey and controlled the tempo throughout, scoring two well-worked goals to secure a convincing 2–0 win.
The third match against Dumpton School proved more challenging. Dumpton scored early, and although Holmewood controlled possession for long periods and applied sustained pressure, they initially struggled to penetrate the D. Persistence was rewarded with a deserved equaliser, and the match finished 1–1.
After a long break, the boys faced a very well-organised St Andrew’s side. St Andrew’s defended centrally and pressed aggressively, forcing turnovers in dangerous areas. They scored twice with powerful strikes from the edge of the D. Holmewood responded with an excellent goal and created further chances, but were unable to find an equaliser, narrowly losing 2–1.
The final group match was against Great Walstead, whose pace — particularly out wide — caused significant problems. They capitalised with well-constructed goals, driving along the baseline and pulling the ball back into the circle. Despite battling hard, Holmewood were defeated 4–1.
Finishing fourth in Group B on goal difference, Holmewood progressed to the Cup Quarter Final, where they faced Wellington College Prep, who had travelled several hours to compete. Wellington proved extremely strong, creating overloads across the pitch and moving the ball quickly. Despite a determined effort and continued attempts to build attacks, Holmewood were unable to break through and exited the competition with a 4–0 loss. Wellington College went on to win the tournament, underlining the quality of the opposition faced.
Although knocked out at the quarter-final stage, the boys delivered a stellar tournament performance, particularly impressive given it was only their second outing of the season. Their work rate, resilience, ambition and belief were evident throughout the day, and they represented the school superbly. The experience gained sets an excellent platform for the season ahead, and the team now look forward with real excitement to the upcoming sports tour to Valencia.
2nd Team vs St Andrew’s Prep, Eastbourne
The 2nd Team were involved in a very even contest against St Andrew’s, with the match ultimately decided by the visitors’ superior finishing. In terms of opportunities created and open play, Holmewood matched the opposition throughout and showed clear progress in their hockey development. Despite the result, there were many positives to take, and the boys can move forward with optimism.
3rd Team vs St Andrew’s Prep, Eastbourne
The Third Team hosted St Andrew’s in a closely contested home fixture, narrowly losing 2–1. The boys competed well throughout, showing good effort and determination, but were unable to find a second goal to force an equaliser in a hard-fought match.
4th Team vs St Andrew’s Prep, Eastbourne
The 4th Team secured a hard-fought 2–1 victory against St Andrew’s in a closely contested match. Holmewood made the stronger start, applying early pressure but initially struggling to convert dominance into clear chances. A well-taken goal gave them a 1–0 lead in the first half.
After half-time, the boys weathered a determined St Andrew’s response before regaining control. A superb individual goal proved decisive, and a strong defensive display — including several excellent saves from George, the goalkeeper, on his first appearance in goal — ensured Holmewood held on for a deserved win.
U11A vs St Andrews Prep
Lost 3-1 – Goal scored by Henry M
The U11A boys were narrowly beaten 3–1 by St Andrews in Eastbourne, though the score line did not reflect the performance. A slow start allowed the opposition to capitalise early, but the second half told a different story. The team showed real grit and determination, working the ball superbly from defence through to attack to score (scored by Henry M) and put St Andrews under pressure. Henry made some fantastic saves in goal, supported by strong defensive resilience and excellent teamwork throughout. You can be happy with the performance, well done boys! DG
Boys-U11B vs St Andrew’s Prep, Eastbourne
On: Wednesday, 04 Feb 26
Venue: Away
And the sun shone and the sky was blue on “The Sunshine Coast!” The Colts B, after a quick warm up, started brightly at the lovely Beresford Hockey centre. Crisp passing, strong tackling and taking shots were key elements and the boys played with passion and commitment, which I so enjoy and admire in a team. Every single player, including Fraser having his first outing in goal, played outstandingly well and wore the Holmewood shirt with pride. Two goals from Basti created a 2-0 advantage at half time and with two further goals from player of the match, Louis made it 4, whilst conceding one near the end to make the final score 4-1 to Holmewood, What a match – what a performance and a great three points on the road. So pleased for the whole team and perhaps a special shout out for January transfer signing Frank, who was outstanding in defence and being so new to the game – wow – so impressive. So, roll on next week, when we travel to the South Coast again but this time to the Regency splendour of Brighton. Well played boys I am so proud of each of you. The quite extraordinary unbeaten sequence of results continues for the Colts B team, The entire football and rugby seasons and now two matches into the hockey season. Well done! PM-J
U9 & U8 Boy’s House Hockey Tournament
The U8s and U9s took part in an exciting inter-house competition, played in a league format that provided plenty of fast-paced and competitive matches. All teams showed great enthusiasm, teamwork and sportsmanship throughout the event.
After a closely contested series of games, Ash House finished in first place, winning three matches and drawing two. Yew House followed in second place with three wins and one draw, while Cob secured third place after winning two matches and drawing three. Oak finished fourth, Beech fifth and Cedar sixth, with all houses contributing to a lively and enjoyable afternoon of rugby.
It was a fantastic event that gave all the boys plenty of game time and the chance to represent their houses with pride — a thoroughly enjoyable competition for everyone involved.
