Black Stick St George coaching trump

Sophie Redmayne in action for St George

St George has a new development coach and an eye to expanding its hockey programme in 2014 as hockey continues to grow in popularity at the school.

Last week St George sent its 1st XI team to Hamilton for a billeting sporting exchange with Southwell School.

They played Southwell and Auckland Diocesan School and came away with a win and a draw respectively.

Headmaster Andrew Osmond said the school was "thrilled" to recruit former Black Stick Anna Symes to run their programme, which aimed to increase player depth and develop their skills.

"Hockey is a fantastic sport, where both girls and boys can compete on an equal playing field, especially from Years 4-8," he said.

"It is a sport that is on the increase. We look forward to investing time and energy into our school hockey programme with a specialist coaching development programme."

Using the water turf at the school grounds meant players were in action most days of the week.

As well as playing hockey in the local competition, the school travels to annual inter-school fixtures throughout the North Island in Terms 2 and 3.

This year St George has had two 11-a-side teams, as well as an eight a-side team in the Year 5-6 competition.

Overall, Hockey Wanganui has had a solid year, with an increase in junior teams from 52 to 57 in Monday and Wednesday competitions.

For St George, Osmond believes the numbers will continue to grow as children are hooked into the game and see personal growth results through being coached, playing and enjoying the sport.