2009 – 2010

Officers: Men’s Captain Hugh Lazenby; Women’s Captain Rebecca Mackintosh

Men’s and Mixed Hockey

This year was one of consolidation for the hockey club. The Michaelmas half-season saw a number of close results in a very competitive third division, with Queen’s eventually unlucky to be relegated on goal difference. In the Hilary half-season the team re-grouped and managed to regain promotion, with the 4-4 draw against an LMH side that had won mixed Cuppers the previous year a particular highlight.

Despite not achieving progress up the leagues, Queen’s consistently displayed tenacity and passion, often putting in competitive displays despite having fewer (and older) players than the opposition. In attack, freshers Alex Macdonald and Sam Agarwal showed great promise, with Sam’s running and movement off the ball nicely complementing Alex’s power and keen eye. Provided it is possible to get one or both out more regularly next year, the hockey club should not be short of goals. In defence, Josh Turner, Theo Perkins and Aletta Warne formed a formidable barrier, never short of commitment in the tackle. Turner is set to take up the captaincy next year, continuing the search for new players and the perennial trouble of getting people to respond to e-mails. The arrival of a new strip ensures that, come victory or defeat, the team will look good.

Women’s Hockey

The women’s hockey team made an excellent start this year. A combination of great team spirit and some fantastic stick work led to a resounding 2-0 defeat of Wadham/CCC in the first league match. Unfortunately it was to be the last such encounter, but, although fewer matches were played than expected, Queen’s finished a respectable second in its division. In Cuppers, despite valiant efforts, Queen’s was knocked out in the first round. Although Queen’s was not the only side to have difficulties in fielding full sides, it was the main reason why Queen’s performance fell short this year. Few freshers expressed an interest in hockey this year apart from Jordan Philips, who became a valued and regular new addition to the team. It is to be hoped that the potential within the existing squad, augmented by new arrivals, will enable Queen’s to put more players on the pitch and achieve success matching its individual talents.