Marrieds / almost married win XFactor tournament!

You just can’t beat experience! The Marrieds / almost married & “living in sin” team, captained by President O’Donnell, proved that they have what it takes, by claiming the inaugural Heatons Vase ( and a lovely vase it is too ! ) on the 2nd day of 2012!

On a very chilly and windy day, a fantastic turnout from club members, ensured that the day was a resounding success and was very much enjoyed by all who took part. Maybe the U21 singles team captained by Doireann Church may feel a little sheepish today as all the talk beforehand was of the ‘Crack’ squad she had assembled (riddled with 1st teamers like Campo, Matthews, McGirr, Barney etc). They came up trumps and promptly lost all 3 matches! Back to the drawing board for next year girls  🙂

In fairness all of the 6 games played,were very competitive with plenty of banter , some sparkling hockey , some horrendous hockey some late Christmas tackling! Orla Smith’s over 21s had a strong squad…they beat the Under 21s and Wendy’s Wagons to set up a showdown with the Marrieds/ almost married.  Wendy’s Wagons did manage to beat the Under 21s in the final game. They were an eclectic mix of young and old with Vets and very young ones.

The Marrieds featured a notable guest appearance of the effervescent Peter Keegan.  He commanded and marshalled his defence and talked a good game with constant cries of Full Press, Half Press, Keep the Ball…much to the bemusement of the rest of the team who hadn’t a clue what he was rabbiting on about!  (Peter claimed the Heatons Tee Shirt for player of the tournament).[nggallery id=7]

The experience of the marrieds and maybe, just maybe , the sprinkling of Ex – International  and present male senior league players , won the day as they overcame a hardworking squad of Over 21s with 2 goals in a minute!  Other matters to note was the slip of a lass Inez Cooper regaling to all about her ‘ACE’ at Naas golf club over the break and then producing a stunning reverse stick stop to show the young ones that she still is a young one herself .

Hannah proved yet again what a fine understanding of the rules of hockey she has – she played a blinder – literally …or is it maybe her vision of hockey in the future ..ie ..NO RULES and umpires don’t blow whistles ! And Doireann proved why she is in goal these days …yes she is worse than brutal with no goalkeeping gear on.

I’m sure there are plenty of other memories of the day, but my abiding thoughts on the day is that I am thrilled that we got this fun event going again because it really was a great way to kick start the club after the Christmas break and it proved again that we do have a strong vibrant atmosphere and an excellent spirit and morale in the club.  Much appreciation to Sally-Ann for helping with the set-up that day.

Although this X-Factor Tournament was a fun initiative by the club, we did ask all those taking part to make a contribution to a well  known charity – and at the end of the day a tidy sum was raised for the RNLI.

In true Loreto Hockey Club Spirit, after the hockey a large number of those who took part retired for a few well earned drinks to the Glenside to analyse the days antics in detail!!! – Rumour has it that Clup Captain  Orla Smith lead a few of the old wan’s (including Wendy, Dav, Hilly & Niamo ) astray late into the evening!!!

Well done everyone – Peter.