Ulster Hockey Tournament

On Saturday we went off to watch Zeek playing in the Under 12 Ulster Hockey Tournament. It is played on these water based pitches. It is not unlike AstroTurf, it feels plastic, but instead of using sand to preserve the turf, they regularly water them. It was very interesting to watch. Zeek's team were considered the underdogs for the day. They played hard and well, all of that training paid off! Warming up:
They started off playing round robin, the days events planned out like this; 6 games would be played by all teams, then the semi and then the finals. One of their matches:

So it was one game on and one game off, Rachel and Corbin made them selves comfortable in the car during the breaks.
I realize now that I am one of those parents who shouts encouragement from the side lines, I mean, it is soooooo exciting, how could you not? Pete and I were hoarse at the end of the day.

Well, the team did exceptionally well! They made it into the semi, but just before the game their coach pulls them aside for a pep talk, he tells them that if they got into the final it would only be the 5th time for their school. And then of course he said that it didn't matter if they didn't because they had tried hard. (but I don't think anyone was listening to that part)

So this is a picture of them after they won, INTO THE FINAL! I tell you I was screaming, jumping up and down, hugging Pete and crying all at the same time. (sound silly? Who cares, that moment ranks up there in my top most exciting, I'm going to pop if I don't shout or cry excited moments) And that was just me, you should have seen the boys! They all piled on top of the boy who scored the goal, and couldn't stop smiling. (I am sure Zeek even smiled in his sleep that night, I know I did.)
So then it was into the finals (remember, now it was 5 times they had done it) I am not a nail biter, haven't bitten for probably 18 years or so, but today was different, bite I did! They played their best, gave the other team a good run for the cup, but didn't get it.

To me though the fact that they got into the final was enough, I just couldn't believe it. What a great day. Here are some of them with their medals, oooh, shiny silver.

The team:
And what happens to boys who play all day in the sun? They pass out at the nearest available moment. He seriously is asleep here, and in case you are wondering, no the medal has not left his side since. What an achievement.


Well done Zeek!!!!!