
The winning Chairo Christian School senior girls hockey team are (back, from left) Belle, Sarah Grant, Charlotte Smith, Emily Coster, Kayla Engelbrecht, Bonnie Ross, (middle, from left) Zaidee Ludlow-McDermott, Molly Prideaux, Callista Nucara, Marisah Mock, Nikita Conley, Matilda Perry and (front) Cassie Hector.
Chairo Christian School in Drouin has kept its proud hockey tradition alive by once again becoming the SSV (School Sport Victoria) senior girls hockey state champions.
It is the third time in four years that the school has claimed the title after wins in 2022 and 2023.
It was a long 12-hour day for the team, with the typical Monash Freeway traffic not helping things.
Arriving with just a few minutes to spare before their first game, it was a mad scramble to get onto the field in time. Going a goal down early wasn't the best start, but from then on they did nothing but dominate.
With wins of 7-2, 8-0 and 10-0, Chairo cruised into the grand final, which proved to be a much tougher game as weary legs took over.
However, a complete team effort ensured a convincing 4-1 victory over Wodonga Senior Secondary College.
The team was coached by teacher Louise Higgins and parent Andrew Mock.
"We are very proud of this group of girls," Mr Mock said.
"They played exceptionally well as a team and also received comments from the opposition about their wonderful attitude."