Pupils from Burgess Hill School for Girls embarked on their second international hockey and netball sports tour to Malta over half term.

Having been on a highly successful tour to Canada in 2008, the squad of sixteen, consisting of six Lower Sixth students, eight Year 11s and two coaches were greatly looking forward to the chance to play sport and build on their sporting experience overseas.

The girls played at Malta’s National Hockey Centre; one of three hockey pitches on the entire island. The experience of playing at the National ground on such a beautiful island will be one I’m sure the girls will hold with them forever. It was not only enjoyable, but also an honour to be accommodated in such a welcoming, communal place where the Maltese conveyed their love for hockey.

Aside from hockey, the girls also entered a Netball Tournament, competing not only against local Maltese club sides, but also other British school teams. One would have thought that with a squad consisting of mainly hockey players this would be to their disadvantage, but in true Burgess Hill style, the girls rose to the challenge to come a respectful fourth place.

Alongside their busy sporting schedules, each evening a different activity was arranged, from bowling and a quiz night, to karaoke and ping-pong. These all proved a vital part in team bonding and created the opportunity to make new friends from both British and Maltese schools.

Overall, the trip provided a steep learning curve for all members, with the schools now having established connections in another country. Once again all the girls achieved an outstanding level of sport and are hugely looking forward to the next sports tour!

Written by Yasmin Rashid, Lower Sixth Student

Burgess Hill pupils at Malta’s National Hockey Centre

23/11/09