Report by Chris Michaels
This week saw two Southgate juniors make their international debuts for the England Under 16s in a three-Test series against Ireland at Lilleshall National Sports Centre.
Zack and Kitt, friends and teammates since Under 10s, were selected for this year’s U16 boys’ squad back in November. After a series of training camps, they were rewarded this week with their first competitive international appearances.
With a squad of 24 — and a small group of players still trialling — each player featured in two of the three matches. Zack played in the first two games, while Kitt featured in the first and the final Test.
For the watching parents, seeing the boys line up for the national anthem was an emotional moment – the culmination of years of hard work, dedication, long car journeys and countless hours spent on cold sidelines. Any tears were quickly replaced with laughter, however, as the boys’ enthusiastic (if slightly questionable!) rendition of the anthem lightened the mood. Practice may be required!
On the pitch, Zack operated at the centre of an attacking front three, while Kitt played in attacking midfield. The hockey was fast, physical and technically sharp, with minimal space and constant high pressing. Zack was unlucky not to get on the scoresheet in his second match, and Kitt produced some typically stylish moments in possession.
England won the series 2–0 overall, recording a 2–1 win, a 1–1 draw and a dominant 6–1 victory as Ireland’s smaller squad began to tire.
Having two Southgate boys in the England squad is something the entire club can be immensely proud of, and huge thanks must go to everyone who has supported them on their journey.
Their selection also highlights the strength of player development pathways within the sport. Both Zack and Kitt progressed through the Talent Academy system and UK Lions – the unofficial UK U14 programme held each summer. More than 20 of the 50 boys across the England and Ireland squads had come through that pathway, demonstrating its value as a stepping stone in Year 8.
Kitt has also represented Hockey Mentors, an organisation creating opportunities for BAME and state-school players to compete at high levels. This year’s age-group squads reflect a growing diversity beyond the traditional boarding school system – a positive sign for the future of a more inclusive game.
Above all, this week was a testament to the brilliant environment at the Gate: coaching from Chris Pearce and Chris Hopson, support from friends and teammates, and the many extra hours Zack and Kitt have put in outside of formal training.
Next up is the 6 Nations in Frankfurt in April, followed by tours to Amsterdam and Hamburg, before the 8 Nations in Krakow concludes the cycle in July. Trials for the U18s begin again in September.
They won’t play every match this season, but the experiences they gain and the friendships they build will last a lifetime.
C’mon England — and up the Gate! 🔴⚫
