Last weekend at the under-13 SECRHA roller hockey league tournament, Farnham demonstrated not just their skill on the pitch but also the impact of the coaching of Lucy Wood and Erin Lloyd.

While the team celebrated two victories against Herne Bay and Maidstone, the real story lay in what those young coaches brought to the team.

Lucy and Erin, both young players themselves, are navigating their first year as coaches with remarkable success. Erin is an under-17 player, a Female Premier League player and part of the England under-17 selection squad. Lucy, also a Female Premier League player, served as assistant coach last season.

With the team currently top of the league and only two tournaments left in the season, they are skilfully managing a squad that boasts some of the strongest players in the under-13 league.

Lucy and Erin emphasise that these games are not merely about the scoreboard; they are platforms allowing everyone to engage in the action, learn the strategies of the game, develop as players and enhance overall team cohesion.

The dedication of this duo mirrors that of the other coaches at Farnham, who all foster confidence and resilience.

This was all evident in Farnham’s performances. Against Herne Bay, Annabel opened the scoring before Farnham surged ahead to a 6–1 half-time lead, capped by her hat-trick.

The match ended 9–3, with Felix also netting three goals alongside two from Isco and one from George. Even the youngest squad member, eight-year-old Sophia, rose to the occasion in goal with many impressive saves.

The momentum was carried into the next game against Maidstone, when George struck within 20 seconds to set the tone for a commanding 6–0 half-time lead.

Despite a second-half goal from Maidstone, Farnham responded swiftly with further strikes from George, Annabel, Felix and Ben, sealing an 11-1 victory.