The Barcelona Hockey Tour
The hockey tour group experienced a fantastic half term. Despite the early start and a hectic check-in they travelled safely to their destination in sunny Barcelona. In the evening, they enjoyed their first training at HC Junior in Sant Cugat del Vallès where they were pleased to make use of the fantastic facility and enjoyed a pitch session to get the journey out of their systems.
The next day, the hockey squad was excited ahead of their training session at Mataró Hockey Club. Excellent sessions took place in the morning for both the teams with Spanish coaches Vincent and Luis coaching them in developing their 3D skills and first touch. The boys fully engaged and had lots of fun and challenges while practicing their skills. The training was followed by some games in the afternoon for both groups with Iluro HC. The Barcelona hockey tour party also had the opportunity to do some sightseeing and visited Museu Nacional d'Art de Catalunya, Camp Neu (home of FC Barcelona) and the Monastery at Montserrat.
Throughout the rest of the week pupils enjoyed playing games against Real Club de Polo de Barcelona and Catalan Hockey Club. The teams rose to the challenge of playing the Club de Polo, where they had the chance to use the amazing facilities. A high intensity game ensued with us under pressure for a large part of the game, but pupils were highly organised and improved their communication and playing skills under pressure. It was a fantastic learning experience against a top class opponent.
At the Junior Club against Catalan, pupils encountered a very strong opposition for their last game of the tour. It was a great opportunity to develop skills in a competitive context. Playing against very high-quality opponents, it was a very worthwhile experience and both teams were able to reflect on and learn from their matches.
