By Sheila Batty
The U14 Cowichan Cougars are following the Cowichan Valley field hockey legacy through unique opportunities.
The U14 team will be traveling to Moorpark California for the Cal Cup at the end of May and in preparation for this trip, the Cougars spent part of their Easter Weekend on the mainland for showcase games.
“A huge thank you to West Vancouver Field Hockey Club for their hospitality, quality opposition, umpires, fantastic venue and lunch,” said the team’s co-manager, Sheila Batty. “The players, coaches and admin were so helpful. The whole experience led to a feeling of community between the teams.”
West Van fielded a U14 team in the first game. After getting behind early and familiarizing themselves with each other on the turf, the Cougars came back to win 4-2.
The second game was played against a co-ed U14 Select team. After a strong start by West Van, the Cougars showed resilience in their second game of the day by winning 5-3.
Being aware the Cal Cup tournament game tie breaker is penalty strokes, a version of a shoot-out, Coach Peter Luff arranged for a practice session of these after each game no matter the result. A goalkeeper duel resulted and each set of penalty strokes went to extra shooters.
The Cougars won both shoot-outs with Kaila Luff, in the first competition, and Rowan Halme, in the second, burying the winning shots.
Reflecting on the showcase Coach Luff commented, “I am very proud of this group of athletes. Last spring they struggled at mainland tournaments. Their improved skill development and team structure were on display this weekend. We are putting in place the pieces that will make us successful in California. I am so honoured to be working with such a dedicated group of athletes.”
The players’ positive experience on and off the field is a credit to the hard work of the team’s management. Amanda Goncalves, co-manager, added, “Opportunities to travel to the mainland to play skilled competitors like West Van, can’t happen without the support and dedication from our families. A huge thank you goes out towards all of our families, and especially to our AP parents. The AP athletes aren’t travelling to California but were willing to be part of these and future games. It is impressive commitment.”
The U14 Cougars would like to thank the Cowichan Field Hockey executive for their ongoing support of the program and their corporate sponsors: Sarah Doyle Real Estate, Mount Sicker Lumber Company LTD and Matthuw Ronald-Jones Real Estate.