After overcoming a few problems with the good old English weather, the first national ladies league tournament took place on the 1st Feb in the Eastern Region with 5 senior teams and 3 U13s teams participating.

“It was great to see so many female players taking part, with England coaches showing their support and attending to select a squad for the National team” said NRHA Ladies League Co-ordinator, Claire Currey.

“After a long journey the Southern Stars had a good start to the League winning their first two games” commented Captain and Organiser, Sue Grant, “We were impressed with the standard of hockey and it was great to see the mix of novice and experienced players playing together.”

“Some of our ladies had never played in an all female team and after offering some encouraging advice to give the girls confidence it paid off, and it was great to see the England team managers at the venues.”

“The Southern Comets had a couple of unfortunate late withdrawals due to the weather but put up a brave fight to draw one game and loose two. Nevertheless the girls are all enthusiastic and looking forward to the next tournament and have even managed to recruit some extra player!”

“I definitely thought the ladies tournament went really well and all seemed to enjoy a really well organised event that finally gets the ladies competing again!”, Julie Finch (Northern Stars).

England Ladies Coach, Derek Bell, added “I thought the weekend went very well and we found more than a few people with the potential to push for a place and strengthen the squad, which is a big plus!”

The next NRHAL Ladies tournament will be held at The Arcadia, Manchester on 2 March from 12.30 until 19.30, and the list of matches can shortly be found on the PRH Competitions pages.

“Thanks to everyone who made the day possible, well done to those who played and congratulations to all the girls selected to join the England Squad” said Claire, “I look forward to reading supporters and players thoughts on developing Ladies Roller Hockey on www.talkrollerhockey.net”

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Reporter: Kos Galtos