Hockey headlines

Over the Easter break, 44 pupils and six members of staff from Wells Cathedral School took part in an unforgettable five-day hockey tour to Rotterdam in the Netherlands.

Hockey is the national sport in the Netherlands, and this was immediately evident from the world-class facilities that greeted our teams. Across three friendly fixtures against local clubs, our players experienced what it’s like to play in venues with a minimum of six astroturf pitches—a scale and quality that left a lasting impression on everyone involved. Post-match hospitality was a highlight, with our pupils warmly hosted by their Dutch counterparts, creating brilliant opportunities for international friendships and cultural exchange.

The group was also treated to a specialist training session on the main pitch of the famous Rotterdam Hockey Club, led by two Dutch U21 international players. Their insight, energy and elite-level expertise gave our pupils a unique developmental experience and inspired many to reflect on their sporting aspirations.

To round off the hockey experience, pupils attended two Premier League matches as spectators, gaining a first-hand glimpse into professional play at the highest level.

The tour wasn’t all about hockey—there was plenty of time for fun and team bonding, too. The group enjoyed a cultural bike tour of Rotterdam, an exciting day at a water park, and even a glow-in-the-dark golf challenge, making the trip one to remember both on and off the pitch.

International Representation

A special congratulations goes to Tilly M, who represented Wales U18s in a three-match series against Canada over the Easter weekend. Tilly played in all three fixtures and made a significant contribution to Wales’ comprehensive 3–0 series victory. We’re incredibly proud of her commitment, performance and continued success at the international level.