State Hockey Success

State Schools Victoria Intermediate Boys/Mixed Hockey State Finals

We do not often discuss personal best performances (PBs) in relation to team sports; however, it is fitting to declare that easily half of Maffra Secondary College’s 2025 Intermediate Boys/Mixed Hockey team members smashed their PBs on November 10 at the SSV Hockey State Finals! Maffra faced three classy opponents from Melbourne schools in Pool A, clearly the toughest pool given that it included a team which included many 2024 SSV hockey champions, and the team who went on to win the state final this year! Of course, the standard of competition was high, but Maffra demonstrated that a rural team consisting of as many year 7 as year 10 students could be fierce competitors as well as outstanding sportspeople. Indeed, the event organiser acknowledged the excellent conduct of Maffra’s players by presenting them with the ‘Team Spirit Award’.

Isabella McInnes was stunning in our second line of defence throughout the day with our first match against Balwyn High School being no exception! A few Maffra players were caught off-guard early in the match; however, and our team was unable to prevent our opponent from scoring three goals by halftime. Although Maffra found more momentum in the second half, they ultimately suffered a 4-0 loss.

Maffra almost scored in the first 30 seconds against Melbourne High School when Connor Johnston’s strike ricocheted off the left post. This action-packed start to the game gave the team an injection of energy that resulted in the closest scoreline of the three matches Maffra played on the day, 3-2. Down by two goals at the midgame-break, Connor masterfully converted a penalty stroke early in the second half, followed by a reverse-stick field goal by Aiden Murphy just five minutes later. Aiden’s confidence grew over the tournament, and he should be proud of the improvement he has made as an attacker.

Throughout the day, our defensive players were kept very busy! Riley Boyle demonstrated composure and versatility whilst Janah Thomas consistently played the position of halfback with skill and tenacity. The other halfback for much of the day, Braidyn Lear-Barclay, showed courage, athleticism, and determination. Tyson Ryswyk made valuable contributions as fullback despite sustaining an injury. Isaac McInnes controlled the central corridor and provided encouragement and guidance to less experienced teammates. Jesse Lenehan was impressive as goalkeeper, saving countless powerful shots on goal, particularly in our last game against Maribyrnong College.

Connor continued to be a key player for Maffra in the final match, lightning fast in both attack and defence. Miller Morton positioned himself thoughtfully and often advanced play on the right wing whilst Ebony Boyle was reliable and ‘gutsy’ on the left wing. Troy Collins, a novice player just three months ago, discovered that he could be a dynamic

centre forward and along with Aiden and Tyson, is considering playing competitive hockey outside of school next year.

The team appreciated Natasha Dowsett’s terrific team management, including hiring a minibus which she drove to Melbourne and back to school on match day. On behalf of the school community, I congratulate the players for representing the school with skill, integrity, and determination at the highest level of competition for a Victorian state secondary school team.

Ms Kate Steinmann

(Coach)