Double hockey victory for Raetihi rebels

Ruapehu Bulletin, Volume 6, Issue 303, 8 September 1989, Page 15

Double hockey victory for Raetihi rebels

On Saturday 2nd September, Raetihi Rebels ladies hockey team pulled off an incredible double victory. The 1989 domestic hockey competition, played under the auspices of the Ruapehu Hockey Association was won by Rebels.

To that crown they ve added the premier Winner's Cup of the King Country Ladies Hockey Association. The Ruapehu Association had agreed after its domestic competition to participate with all teams playing in the King Country competition. Rebels took on the lot and emerged as overall winners. This team of Raetihi ladies vary in age and ability from aging and experienced players to young and novice players. The concept of mixed inter-association fixtures was designed to improve the skills and playing standards of

hockey overall as well as fostering a deeper understanding of the sport amongst younger players. Players from district College's of Ruapehu, and Taumarunui together with enthusists of Taihape College, gained heaps of experience in playing against teams of disciplined and skilled hockey players.

In fact Rebels, not noted for their athletic ability and personal fitness, had at times difficult battles with many of the young, fit yet inexperienced players of College teams. In winning both competitions Rebels now rank as one of the Waimarino's leading sports teams. While the urge to win has been of secondary consideration, the pleasure of playing hockey for enjoyment has been one of the major factors for success, says team coach John Compton.

The team is noted for it's mediocre practice attendances, yet has gained inter-association notoriety for it's social manner. According to John Compton, "the team that plays together - stays together." Not that this matter should detract from Rebels winning streak, says John, for they chalked up some big scores in reaching the double title. They defeated Owhango in their last game 5-0 and, earlier, Taumarunui 8-0. They recorded only one loss

this season, to runnersup in the King Country Competition, Ngapuke who won 3-2. Ngapuke won with a tight controlled and attacking game whereas High School A of Taumarunui seemed to have

the fitness edge over Rebels and forced a 4-4 draw. Tight as the competition was, Rebels finally, through the experienced trio of Enid Windle, Margie Berry and Ethae

Carmichael, managed to manipulate their younger players into better hockey. Team players Joanne Oliver, Chairmaine Green, Rene Bloxham, Michelle Bright and Turnpage 16

From page 15 Marion Benriet ably supported and backed the "aging" trio. While newcomers Stephane Rodgers, Missey Kim,

Vanessa Meyer, Chris Hawira, Vicky King and Pauline Oliver all made valuable contributions towards the teams successful domination.