Autumn Term 2024 Sports Report

It has been a very promising year for girls' hockey at Lingfield. We have seen great development from all our teams this term, and I am very pleased with how the girls have progressed during the last four months. The following is an overview of some of our key highlights of the year and how the season has gone.

Leading by example is our 1st XI girls' squad who have enjoyed a phenomenal season, remaining unbeaten in all their matches. Demonstrating remarkable skill and teamwork, they have scored an impressive 33 goals while conceding just 5—a testament to their solid defence and sharp attacking play. Some highlights of their campaign were a thrilling 2-2 draw against Ardingly College's 1st XI, a formidable opponent, and a top-tier team. There was also a Stelar Surrey Cup tournament, which saw the girls produce 3 phenomenal wins, one of which was a 10-0 victory. Unfortunately, a draw to a strong CLFS side after these wins was not enough to put us through to the area finals, however a great effort from our girls to get that far. This result reflects the girls' determination, resilience, and ability to compete at the highest level, capping off a season of exceptional performances. A standout player for the team is year 13 student Mackenzie, who has put in game winning performances week in week out scoring a multitude of goals in her final year with us at Lingfield. The girls topped off their fantastic season with a 3-0 final win against Lancing College which saw them retain the unbeaten title.

The U15 girls' hockey teams have shown remarkable growth and improvement throughout the season. Although results may not have gone in their favour this year, There has been a clear leap in the quality and technical skills of the whole team. The work rate from everyone on top of this has been a driving factor in their expeditious development. It is looking to be very promising for next year and I can't wait to see the girls adding even more quality to the senior teams in the coming autumn term.

For the U14 girls, it has been a noteworthy journey as they transitioned from 7-a-side hockey to the more challenging 11-a-side format. Adapting to this change is no easy feat, and the girls have shown incredible resilience and determination in rising to the challenge. The A-team's hard work and commitment were rewarded with a well-deserved 2nd place finish in the Surrey Cup, an outstanding achievement, which then saw them achieve a place in the Southeast Finals, showcasing their growth and ability to perform under pressure. This success is a testament not only to the girls' dedication but also to the efforts of their coach, Miss Billing. She has worked closely with the team throughout the season, ensuring each player has the support and guidance needed to develop their skills and flourish on the pitch. The team's progress this year has been truly impressive, and they continue to grow stronger with every match.

Coming up from year 7 last year, our U13 girls have continued to develop their skills and understanding of the game this term. While results have not always reflected their efforts, the team has shown great resilience and determination to improve in every match. Building on the foundations that were laid in Year 7, the girls have developed a more structured approach to their gameplay and their improved positioning, passing, and defensive strategies have been great to see. This term has been a fantastic journey for the Year 7 girls who have transitioned up to senior school. They have displayed an exceptional attitude, determination, and a real desire to improve. It has been particularly rewarding to include all the Year 7 girls in every fixture this term, and they have performed admirably across the teams, from the A-team to the D-team. I have thoroughly enjoyed working with all the girls throughout the season and look forward to continuing next year.

The U12A team has been a standout throughout the whole school, impressing us with their strong start to the term and continued improvement in every game. A highlight was their dominant 11-0 victory over Radnor House. The A team girls are truly showing their class, and I’m excited to see how they develop over the coming years. Key players to mention are Amelia, who has significantly raised the standard of hockey, playing up an age group with the Year 8 girls and recently impressing even more as she stepped up to the U14 A team where she earned Player of the Match from the opposition. Additionally, Jasmine has made a remarkable impact, which has seen her becoming the school's top goal scorer after just eight games; she has more goals than games played! It’s been a pleasure to watch these players grow and contribute to such a strong and exciting season. As we look ahead, I am confident that all the girls will continue to flourish, and I am excited for the opportunities and successes that lie ahead next season.

It’s a pleasure to share the fantastic progress our boys' football teams have made this term, and I’m delighted to report on a season that has been marked by individual success, team triumphs, and a strong sense of determination. Here’s an overview of some of the key highlights.

Firstly, the U13 Colts have had an exceptional term, with an impressive 90% win rate - 9 wins and just 1 loss - leading the way for the rest of our teams. Their performances have set a high standard, and their consistency on the pitch has been remarkable. They truly embody the competitive spirit we aim to foster at Lingfield.

In terms of individual success, we are thrilled to congratulate George in year 10, who has signed with Southampton FC. This is a huge achievement for George, and it demonstrates the quality of footballing talent we have here at Lingfield. His commitment to the sport inspires us all, and we wish him continued success as he embarks on this exciting new chapter of his career.

Looking at the wider competitions, we are proud to have our U12, U13, and U15 teams still competing in the ESFA Cup, all with their eyes firmly set on a place in the final. We are particularly eager to return to The Hawthorns stadium and continue to make our mark on the national stage.

Moreover, our U13, U15, and U18 teams are all progressing through their respective ISFA Trophy and Bowl competitions. This is an exciting time for our school football programme, and with the talent and dedication we have, there’s every chance we could see one, if not all these teams go all the way to the finals.

A special mention must go to 1st XI goalkeeper, Stanley, currently at AFC Wimbledon, who provided the moment of the term. In a thrilling match, Stanley scored a late equalizer from a corner—yes, you heard that right, a goalkeeper scoring from a corner to make it 3-3! It was an unforgettable moment that perfectly encapsulates the never-say-die attitude we cherish here at Lingfield.

Another standout performance came from the U15 team, who showed incredible resilience to fight back from a 2-0 deficit against Buckswood in the ESFA Cup. After drawing level at 2-2, the match went to penalties, and the team held their nerve to secure a dramatic win. It was a true display of character and determination.

At Lingfield, we are really pushing football as far as we can. We are committed to developing our players, both individually and as teams, and setting our sights on competing with the best schools out there. Whether it’s in national cups or local competitions, we are determined to raise the standard of our football programme and ensure that Lingfield is known as a place where football talent thrives. With the quality of players we have, we’re confident that we can continue to compete with the best schools across the country.

This term has been an outstanding success, and we are excited about the future. Our teams have shown exceptional skill, resilience, and sportsmanship, and we are incredibly proud of all that they’ve accomplished. As we move forward, we’ll continue to push for success and aim for even greater achievements on the football pitch.

I am also pleased to provide an update on the fantastic progress of girls’ football at Lingfield, which continues to go from strength to strength. This term has been a standout period, with the teams achieving remarkable success, showing impressive determination, and setting the stage for even greater accomplishments in the future.

Let’s begin with the U14/15 team, whose achievements this term have been nothing short of outstanding. Not only did they capture the ISA Football Cup at LVS Ascot, but they have also reached the fourth round of the ESFA Cup—a milestone that marks the furthest we’ve ever progressed in this competition. Their fourth-round match is scheduled for Tuesday, 17th December, against Kingsdale Foundation School, and we’re all looking forward to seeing how far they can go. This is a great testament to the team’s talent and the hard work that has gone into this remarkable run.

A key player this term has been Zohal, who joined the school at the end of September in Year 10. Zohal has made an immediate impact while also signing with Brighton and playing for the U16s regularly. Her performances have demonstrated exactly what we are striving for: talent, hard work, and a relentless commitment to improving. Her contribution highlights our determination to progress girls' football at Lingfield and to push our teams to compete at the highest levels.

Zohal is part of a growing group of talented players who are making a significant impact. We also have Chloe, a Year 9 student, who plays for Crystal Palace, and Ella, a Year 8 player, who is signed with Brighton and has recently been playing up a year for the U14s. These players, along with the rest of the teams, are showing us just how much potential there is in our girls’ football programme.

Altogether, the girls’ teams have played over 30 fixtures this term, which is an exceptional achievement for a sport that is still growing in prominence. The U15 team has been particularly impressive, playing 9 fixtures, winning 8, and suffering just one loss to a very strong Bedes side. This record demonstrates the quality and resilience within the team and provides a solid foundation for future success.

Meanwhile, the U12 team has also made excellent progress, securing 3 wins, including two victories over Dunottar. It’s clear that the U12s are developing well and gaining the experience needed to continue improving.

The rising popularity of girls’ football at Lingfield is undeniable, and it is wonderful to see how rapidly the demand for the sport is growing. We have seen a sharp increase in the number of fixtures played, the quality of our teams, and the ambition of our players.

The future of girls' football at Lingfield is looking incredibly bright. With our teams competing at high levels and our players continuing to develop and succeed, we are excited about the possibilities for the seasons ahead. The achievements this term are proof of how far we’ve come, and they reflect the hard work and commitment of everyone involved.

Sports colours are a prestigious recognition awarded to students who demonstrate outstanding commitment, leadership, and excellence in a particular sport. These accolades not only honour individuals for their consistent dedication throughout the season but also celebrate their role as exemplary ambassadors for their teams, setting a standard through their attitude, work ethic, and sportsmanship.

To be awarded sports colours, students must show more than just skill—they must consistently contribute to the culture of their team by leading both on and off the field. This involves demonstrating athletic progress, fostering team cohesion, and displaying reliability in training and matches. Colours are symbolic of the highest level of achievement in school sports, reflecting qualities such as perseverance, respect, and integrity.

Historically, the tradition of awarding sports colours dates back to the late 19th century, with prestigious institutions such as Oxford and Cambridge Universities pioneering the concept to recognise outstanding athletic performance. Today, they remain a revered honour in schools worldwide, promoting values such as teamwork, discipline, and a lifelong passion for sport.

By awarding sports colours to senior players in Year 12 and 13 for Hockey and Football, we aim to celebrate not only athletic success but also the holistic development of student-athletes who inspire others through their commitment, consistency, and contribution to the sport. These awards are a lasting reminder of the vital role sports play in personal growth and the legacy left behind by those who wear their colours with pride.