King’s crop picked for North of England

THE King’s School has a bumper crop of talented young hockey stars progressing through the national elite coaching programme.

Between coaches Peter Langley to the left and Steve Moores to the right are pictured nine young performers all eager to emulate their Olympic heroes and help make Britain a hockey powerhouse.

All nine players have been selected to play in North of England regional tournaments at their age groups. Seven will be representing the North West for the Manchester Pumas while two, Jack Ancell and Tom Carter, will be representing Durham and Leeds respectively.

From left to are fast moving goalkeeper Tom Carter, 15, from Tytherington. Tough tackling defender and incisive playmaker Abigail Cook, 16, from Tytherington. Midfield pass master Archie Phillips, 15, from Knutsford. Powerful centre back and shooter Max Ridings, 16, from Alderley Edge. Atheltic goal keeper Natalie Stevens, 16, from Macclesfield. Fast moving striker Sam Buckingham, 16, from Macclesfield. Midfield dynamo Zoe Thomas, 14, from Congleton. Multi-talented Olivia Moores, 15, from Macclesfield, with at the end brave keeper Jack Ancell, 14, from Mobberley. Skilful stick handler Ben Jones, 14, from Wilmslow has also been selected for Manchester Pumas.

Coach Steve Moores said: “Both the girls under the expert eye of Sarah Hopkin and the boys have benefitted from the excellent playing surfaces at King’s.”

He added: “The North of England squads will be selected on performances at these tournaments so all the players will be trying their utmost to take the next step and we wish them all the very best.”