Latif (Year 10) recently received the amazing news that after four months of highly competitive trials, he has been selected for the England U16 Boys Hockey Squad. We asked Latif to describe the journey starting from his first experience with hockey.
When I first picked up a hockey stick at the age of 11, I never imagined how far it would take me. It all began in Year 7, with a simple desire to try something new. Back then, I was just an outfield player on a school team and became a goalkeeper accidentally. I was meant to play for one game but as soon as I stepped in the goal, I felt different. I stopped every shot that came my way, and from that moment, I knew I had found my calling.
I quickly worked my way up to the school’s A-team and joined Crostyx Hockey Club. My efforts led me to the Essex Trials, where I became captain of the squad. That first year with Essex was unforgettable—not just because we won with good spirit but because it marked the beginning of a journey that would take me to heights I had never imagined.
My coach saw potential in me and introduced me to Hockey Mentors, where I played against the best under-16 teams in the country at just 12 years old. I was testing my skills against players who were bigger, stronger, and more experienced. I thrived under pressure, growing with each match and surprising even myself with what I was capable of.
The challenges grew tougher as I progressed. I was playing for my club’s first team and competing in UK indoor championships with Hockey Mentors against top hockey clubs in the country. Each save, each dive, each moment of focus reinforced my belief that I was meant for this.
The biggest challenge came with Open Trials for England’s under-16 boys’ squad. After four intense assessments, I earned my place as goalkeeper on the international team. The journey demanded late nights, early mornings, loads of hard work, and unwavering belief in myself. Today, I stand tall as a goalkeeper, knowing that the journey has just begun.
- Latif, Year 10
