The past two weekends have been nothing short of spectacular, with seven grand finals across 14 teams showcasing the very best of our hockey community. The atmosphere was electric; at times tense, always exciting, and filled with club spirit as supporters turned up in colours, waving banners, and cheering their hearts out.
Our youngest stars set the tone with the Under 12s grand final between Torquay and Corio. After a nail-biting match that remained equal even after a dramatic shootout, the teams were declared joint premiers. Special recognition goes to goalkeepers Jasper and Maggie, who showed nerves of steel under immense pressure.
In the Under 14 competition, Corio White overcame Corio Red in a thrilling 4–2 contest. The first weekend also saw the debut of the Doggie Dash, which added plenty of fun to the day with some tasty treats for our four-legged winners. Campbell Batchelor and his dog Zelda were the winners of the Dash, while Chelsea O’Loan and her dog Pepper won the Best Dressed prize.
Two demonstration matches between the Premiers and Runners Up of the two U10 venue competitions also added to the day, with a high level of skill shown by these young superstars. The Stead Park competition saw Newtown Strikers finish as Premiers with Saints Runner Up. The Lloyd Reserve competition Premiers were Newtown Dynamos with Newtown Jets Runners Up.
The second grand final day on 6 September began with another Corio showdown, this time in the Under 16s. After a high-quality match that went right down to a shootout, Corio Red edged out Corio White 12–10. A unique highlight was the presence of three sets of siblings competing on opposing sides; a true reflection of how hockey runs deep through families in our community.
From there, it was time for our senior players to shine. In Division 2 Men, Geelong Jaguars Blue defeated Torquay 3–0 in an intense, skilful game played under perfect sunshine. Tim De Souza (Geelong) was named Player of the Grand Final, while Matt Bald (Torquay) took home Best and Fairest.
The Division 1 Women’s Grand Final saw Torquay triumph over Geelong Jaguars Blue 6–2 in a hard-fought battle. Emma Hatton (Torquay) was awarded Player of the Grand Final, while Lilliann McFeeter (Saints) received Best and Fairest honours.
The day also provided a chance to celebrate outstanding contributions beyond the pitch. The John Stephenson Memorial Trophy was proudly presented to Grace Harper, recognising not only her outstanding playing season but also her dedication to umpiring. Charlie Maloney and Daniel Glenn were named the most improved junior and senior umpires, with their awards presented by John Larkins and Pearce Frost. In addition, Ian Sayers and Claire Barnes were inducted into the Hall of Fame, acknowledging their significant and ongoing contributions to our sport.
The President’s Trophy was awarded to Corio, recognising the club’s impressive growth from a single senior side to a thriving junior and senior program heading into 2025.
Grand final action then returned with the Division 1 Men’s decider, where Torquay celebrated in style with a commanding 10–3 victory over Corio. Jayden Gulson (Torquay) was named Player of the Grand Final, while Archie Penney (Corio) received Best and Fairest honours (and we’ll make sure his award makes it safely to England!).
To close out the weekend, the Division 2 Women’s grand final saw Corio claim a 6–1 win over Torquay. Emmaline Shand (Corio) was named both Player of the Grand Final and Best and Fairest for the division.
Across both weekends, the grand finals brought together everything we love about hockey; skill, determination, community spirit, and celebration. Congratulations to all teams, players, coaches, volunteers, and supporters who made these days so memorable.
