Boys’ hockey in the Lent Term is always action packed, with a multitude of fixtures across 16 teams squeezed into 11 short weeks. The progress that the pupils make is astonishing in such a short space of time, and no team showed this more than the 1stXI. Only two members of the squad had played for the 1st team before the start of this year so it was the boys who had to adapt to the pace of 1st team hockey quickly. The lack of experience showed in the first half of the season but were unbeaten after the break with a standout win against a Cranleigh side who made the last 8 of the National Cup. The team has been led superbly over the term by Ted (G) (Captain) and Archie (G) (Vice-Captain) along with many of the Upper Sixth boys who are playing in their final year of hockey for Bradfield. Mr Boddington’s 2ndXI have played some eye-catching hockey this year, the highlight being finishing 3rd at the regional finals.
The U16s have had a fantastic season. The U16As in particular have had a groundbreaking season. From only winning one game in their Faulkner’s year to winning 9 this season, alongside a great cup run narrowly missing out on a semifinal spot with a 4-3 loss to Bedford, unable to hang on after leading 3-2 with 10 minutes to go. The U16B team finished 3rd at the regional finals which is another fantastic achievement. The U15As have also bought cup success to the hockey club this term. A run to the quarter final including wins against Marlborough and Nottingham High. It is always difficult for the Faulkner’s boys this term as they are often competing against teams that have been playing for a lot longer than they have. The A team’s highlight was undoubtedly coming from 2-0 down vs Cranleigh to win 3-2 and register their first win together as a team.
