Leighton Park School officially inaugurated its new state-of-the-art hockey astroturf, marking a significant milestone for its sports programme. Olympic hockey player, Shona McCallin, set the tone and formally opened the pitch with an inspiring speech, reflecting on her journey to winning Olympic Gold.
Shona told us: “I am biased because I love Sport. It has given me so many opportunities, confidence and lifelong friends – as well as the ability to travel the world. You get a real sense of belonging from being in a team, which was so powerful for me growing up. For these young people, this facility will open up so many opportunities. It is brilliant that it is now open. I wish I’d had something like this when I was at school”.
The grand opening on Thursday was not just a celebration of the new facilities but also a showcase of talent and sportsmanship with two spectacular hockey matches. You can see images in our Flickr gallery.
The event kicked off with an intense game between the Leighton Park Girls’ U18 1st team and their counterparts from Reddam House. Leighton Park’s girls clinched a 3-1 victory with goals from Charlotte C, Charlotte H and Flick. Supporting students and staff cheered from the side lines, enjoying the speed and skill on display.
Matt Richards, our Chemistry teacher, Head of Hockey and a Reading 1st Team player commented: “I’m very excited to see a high level of hockey. It is amazing to have an Olympian here to open this new Astro. It will help the students to improve their technical skills and our ability to host local area tournaments.”
Leighton Park U18 1st team member and goal scorer Charlotte H (Upper Sixth), commented: “I’m really proud, we had a really special team this year, helped by having so many sports trips together. I couldn’t be happier that we were able to round of this incredible experience with the opening of this new Astro.”
Following the girls’ triumph, the astroturf bore witness to a thrilling exhibition match from Reading’s Men’s Performance Squad, featuring two Leighton Park boys.
First goal scorer and Leighton Park student, Oliver (Lower Sixth), who plays in the England U16 Hockey team and within the Reading Men’s team, commented: “I’m really excited to use this facility. I enjoy my hockey and it is great for the team to help take us to the next level.” His younger brother George in Year 9 showed he wasn’t daunted by playing against a top-quality men’s side, scoring the third goal with a lovely jinking run.
The new facility, equipped with the latest in turf technology, promises to be a game-changer for the school’s hockey teams. “This new astroturf represents a significant investment in our sports facilities and demonstrates our commitment to excellence in all aspects of school life, including sport,” said Deputy Head Pastoral, Nicky Hardy.
Leighton Park offers over thirty different sports as part of our Games and Co-curricular programmes. Hockey is one of our focus sports, alongside Football and Netball.
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