As the competition approaches the halfway point, Port Stephens Hornets Hockey Club is taking stock of one of its more successful seasons in recent memory.
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The men’s top grade team, playing in the Newcastle Men’s Hockey Association competition, is looking to emulate their 2016 title success, and the early signs are promising.
Sitting second on goal difference to ladder leaders South Newcastle, it has been a pleasing campaign so far.
And that’s taking into consideration the number of juniors who have progressed into the starting line-up.
The men’s twos team is currently sitting in third spot in their division, a major improvement from recent years where the team has failed to be competitive with the top sides.
A good mix of youth and experience on the team is paying dividends.
Thirds are still winless, but are improving every game.
They are close to causing a few headaches for teams when the second half of the season rolls around.
The club’s women’s team is competing at the top end of the Maitland A-grade competition.
They will be hoping to make the grand-final after missing out last season.
The number of juniors coming through the ranks is a major contributor to the club’s on field success this season.
“A large amount of credit for the quality of the juniors must go to the local competition at Salamander Bay,” the club’s Scott Rainbow said.
“These boys got their start on the grass there, before making the move to synthetic turf hockey in Newcastle.
“It says a lot to the commitment to training and developing the skills in that competition.
“Without them, the Hornets would have no junior base to feed from.”
Junior players who are making an impact on the senior squads include talents like midfielder Brad Fletcher who has recently been named in the NSW All Schools under-16 team, defender Lucas McLeod and attacker Jamie Whatman all contributing each week in the top grade.
Youngsters Nick Chruchill and Beau Carpenter are impressing in their first year in the men’s grades.
In the May 27-28 weekend result, firsts had a tough 4-2 win over Crusaders with Brad Willcocks scoring a hat trick and Chris Southall grabbing the fourth goal.
Seconds remain third after securing a 5-3 win over fourth placed Norths and open the gap to four points.
Thirds went down 4-1 to competition leaders Colts with Nick Churchill grabbing his first ever senior goal.
The women’s team had a 5-1 win.
