Junior Wrap:
All six Mudgeeraba Hockey Club U13>U17 teams made it through the semis to Preliminary Finals; five got through to Grand Finals. U13g were in their Prelim till the last second, but it just wasn't their day. Thanks to Charlotte Goninan for her committed coaching of U13g, ably abetted by Kim Otto.

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Last "Grand Final" Friday started with U15g & U15b unfortunately on at the same time, which made for a lot of zipping back and forth across the carpark. The girls played like the well-oiled machine they have become, crafted by Paul Gasmier & supported by Shaneen Johnston, and had a comfortable win. The boys have struggled for numbers all season, often playing with 7, but managed 11 on the GF night (albeit with 6 U13boys!) and fought … and fought … and fought … and fought …. for a nil-all draw with Labrador after 20 mins extra time, which made them Joint Premiers. The team and Coaches Rowdy Holt and Rhys Buckingham are still grinning, as is fantastic manager Jen Hamley.

Our U17g then fought for an equally hard draw, finally going down in "golden goal" extra time drop-offs, in a valiant effort. The team are grateful to Coach Rowen Dick & manager Rosanna, & will covet next year’s title.

The U17b had an eventful Final, starting late as their Umpire was on our U15b game doing extra time. They started with 9 players, until the U15's made it across. The play & score went back and forth; with 15 mins to go and an unfortunate 2-4 down, Goalie Lachlan Johnston (who later won U17 GCHA player of the year) had to leave in order to get to Brisbane for an 11pm flight to Europe!! Brave Zachary Hemberg suited up for the first time this season & nonchalantly played a wonderful final 15 mins. Trevor Johnston (TJ) coached the U17b (managed by David Pinchin) & also Mentored U15b Coaches Rhys & Rowdy, often training the U17/U15boys as a squad. MHC is grateful for, and in awe of, TJ’s commitment.

The following day (last Saturday) our newest Players, the U11 Mixed, finished their season with a game on the turf against Burleigh, followed by a great BYO Picnic & MHC certificate presentation by Coaches Ingrid Woods (who can't make MHC Junior presentation) & Ben Donnan. Thanks to them & managers Greg & Donna Lappin, plus assistance from U9 Coach Suzy Raymer, for their flexibility and commitment against all odds this season!

The U13b then won a fantastic high scoring Grand final, playing their hearts out and socks off to beat Labrador. Zach Hemberg got a couple of spectacular goals straight from the centre-pass when we were down & Chris Turner was awarded the (Umpires' decision) Player of the Final. Every player stepped up and contributed to this game; Coach Dean Turner has nurtured this band of disparate age and experience, and really showed what team play is all about. Thanks to manager Heather Burton (whose son, regular GK Lance was on a plane to Japan) and special mention to Blake Howard-Lawn, who filled the Goalie kickers with determination and aplomb, and little previous experience!

Junior Fun Day & Presentation is Sunday 11 October 2-4pm, Home grounds Somerset Park. Team and Individual Trophies will be presented, and it gives you a chance to thank your Coach & Manager who have facilitated hockey for all Junior players this season.

Look forward to celebrating with you there …. rumour has it the Lollymen will be Lurking…..