Sophie to captain Grammar hockey team

“We’re delighted to hear that Sophie is to captain this year’s Grammar School first team, and in our opinion she thoroughly deserves this honour,” said Peter Stevenson, president of Carrickfergus Ladies Hockey Club where Sophie is already an established first-team player.

“Sophie has very much burst unto the scene here at Carrick Ladies and, in a few short years, has securely established herself as first choice right-back in our 1st XI squad. She’s skillful, determined, fearless, and above all, totally dedicated to her hockey.

“I’m pleased to say we also have an important extended family relationship with Sophie as her father Hugh has this season joined our senior coaching squad and has already added considerable value to this vital aspect of our club structure.

“Carrick Ladies club has enjoyed a long and harmonious relationship with all of the hockey playing schools in and around the town. Over many years we’ve lost count of the number of Grammar School girls who have played a key role in our club’s ongoing success.

“Our match secretary Ashley McConnell and Carrick Grammar’s hockey coach, Mrs Botha, have been in regular contact to develop a relaxed and mutually beneficial working relationship intended to ensure that our school girls get the optimum opportunity to fully develop their hockey playing skills for both school and club,” added Peter.

“On behalf of our club I’d like to take this opportunity to wish all of our associated schools a very successful hockey season in the year ahead. We look forward to maintaining our close ties with all of you as we pursue our fundamental aim of ensuring that Carrick Ladies Hockey Club remains a top, and hopefully first choice club for any school girl looking to extend and develop their hockey playing activities in a relaxed and friendly home club environment.”