Matt Cook was selected to represent the Victoria White team back in July and after a busy term of training twice a week he travelled across the country to compete in the National U13 this week. Hosted in Perth over the school holidays, the team competed against two teams from QLD, NSW, WA and one team from NT, SA, TAS and ACT as well as the Victoria Blue team.
The boys played some extremely competitive hockey and despite losing many games, they maintained a positive attitude and displayed a wonderful team spirit. The highlights were a very close game against the Vic Blue team only losing 2-0 (the blue team normally thrashes the white team), a win against NT and a draw against ACT. Most exciting was a thrilling win against the QLD Sabres on the second last night after a long run of consecutive, disappointing losses. The celebrations were akin to winning the whole tournament.
The carnival was run in conjunction with the AHL, and the boys were lucky enough to be able to watch many of the Viper and Viking games. Particularly exciting was presenting the Vikings with their medals after they won the tournament and receiving some of their playing gear (sweat and all) along with autographs and photos.
The trip was also a great chance to get to know other kids from around the state who are just as passionate about hockey as Matt is. Many fun times were had and great friendships were made. It was an incredible experience for Matt to be able to play hockey at this level and a wonderful opportunity to improve his hockey, so much so that he was awarded the Best and Fairest for his team for the tournament.
Well done Matt!
