President's Cup expands to include 1st XI Girls' Hockey

Introduced in 2021 as a rugby event, the schools expanded the competition this year to include 1st XI hockey, reflecting the growing enthusiasm for this popular annual fixture and giving equal prominence to girls’ sport.

The day was an excellent showcase of skill and sportsmanship highlighting the friendly rivalry, camaraderie, and respect between both schools. Although Pocklington were first to score in the rugby match, Hymers came back strongly in the second half to emerge victorious with the final score 3-21. Over on the astro pitches, Pocklington triumphed in the hockey after dominating in the first half and holding off an attempted comeback from a determined Hymers side in the second. Pocklington won by 3 goals to 2 to secure the inaugural President’s Hockey Cup.

After the matches, players, coaches, and invited guests from Hymers gathered for a luncheon hosted by the Headmaster, Toby Seth, and the OP President, Charlie Lambert. Parents of the home side’s first team players also attended, adding to the day's celebratory atmosphere. The Headmaster extended a warm welcome to everyone before handing over to the OP President who referred to the enduring friendship and family ties between the two schools. This was particularly pertinent with the opposing rugby captains being cousins!
 

Charlie Lambert expressed his enjoyment of the event saying:

"This has been a fantastic morning of sport against Hymers School in which the games on the pitch reflected the hard work of all pupils that played. The introduction of girls' hockey to this event is very welcome and with a win each, it leaves next season's competition wide open."

“This is a special event in both schools' calendars and we were again delighted to host Hymers, friends and colleagues to the afternoon.

There are many connections between both organisations and this closeness is matched by a sense of history and tradition that both schools are very proud of.

Thanks to all for coming along.”

Toby Seth, Headmaster

Pocklington’s Head of Rugby, Samuel Fox, and Head of Hockey, Ben Byas gave a brief overview of the matches before the OP President presented the trophies to the captains of the winning teams, cementing another memorable chapter in the history of the President's Cup.