Since September, the U20 girls‘ ball hockey team have been training hard in preparation for ISSFHK finals. After an impressive 2-0 victory against DSC, our sights were turned to the toughest competitor yet–CAIS, the current champion. With hopes for a third-place finish at ISSFHK playoffs, the girls were buzzing with excitement. As one player mentioned, “”It felt nerve-wracking, but somehow, I also felt a sense of confidence.“ With a 0-0 score until three minutes into overtime, the end felt near, yet one lucky bounce of the ball into the goal led VSA to win.  

Mr. Folden, our ball hockey coach, and who we must of course similarly thank for his amazing cookie-baking skills, and continuous words of encouragement, expressed his feelings on the outcome of this season. “While our season came to a disappointing end; a 1-0 overtime loss in the bronze medal final, I couldn’t be prouder of the progress we made and improvement we showed. I’ve never had a group so positive…and welcoming of one another. The future has never looked brighter for CDNIS ball hockey.”  

Long running team captain and graduating senior Nicole C. emphasised how the loss only made their team stronger. “The fact that we lost felt pretty irrelevant to me after the game because I really felt like our season brought the whole team together. The fact that our team is so young ensures that everyone will just keep getting more comfortable with each other and improve for next season!” Although there were some pitfalls during the season, Nicole voiced how she is “super happy about how [they] played all season and grateful that everyone stayed so committed.” 

For now, the 2026 hockey season comes to an end; but hopes are high for next year!