Two local hockey stars have represented their county at major national championships, marking an exciting new chapter for the sport.
Ripon Grammar pupils Aimee O’Dea, 17, and Oonagh Jackson, 16, just narrowly missed out on the National County Championship trophy when North Yorkshire was unlucky to lose in the final, having been unbeaten throughout the group stage.
After a 25-year absence, the prestigious tournament has been relaunched, bringing together the most talented U17 players from across the country.
North Yorkshire defeated Kent, Essex, Hampshire, Gloucestershire and West Yorkshire before losing to Hampshire, whom they had beaten in the group stages, 2-1 in the final.
Aimee and Oonagh said they were proud to represent North Yorkshire, stepping up to the pitch for this landmark return, which offered a rare and exciting opportunity to compete against unfamiliar opposition on a national stage.
Just under 50 squads represented 40 counties at the three-day event, held at Nottingham Hockey Centre, the country’s premier hockey venue.
Aimee, from North Yorkshire, who began playing hockey when she was six years old, said:
“The championship was tough but good fun and although the final was disappointing, we were proud that it was the only time we were defeated in the whole competition.”
The aspiring dentist added:
“It also taught us how to be resilient and keep our heads up in tough situations.”
Oonagh, from Harrogate, who started playing at 12 years old, added:
“The competition was very tough throughout the entire competition but especially in the final.
“And we had previously beaten the team in the group stages, so tensions were high.”
Also planning to study dentistry at university, she added that her ambition is to win the nationals this season.
Finalists revealed for Knaresborough business awards
Harrogate woman to walk 200km in memory of dad lost to brain tumour
Study names Harrogate among fastest-growing locations in UK for Land Rovers
Big Harrogate Sleepout returns for third year to support local charities
Harrogate tech firm shortlisted for six national Tech Awards
Harrogate MP calls for new powers to close 'cowboy' vape vendors
Harrogate law firm donates vital cancer equipment in memory of colleague
Local Hero Awards 2026: Meet the finalists
Police appeal after man makes 'sexual gestures' in Ripon
Yorkshire voters would reject MPs who back 'holiday tax', major poll shows
Harrogate charity Horticap hits the road in new electric vehicle
Harrogate IT provider wins prestigious King's Award for Enterprise
Funding secured for new men's mental health programme in Harrogate district
Knaresborough Castle repairs finally set to get underway
Opening date delayed for new-look Furlong and Furrow
Boutique women's fashion brand opens new Harrogate store
Football stars visit Harrogate school to inspire next generation
New café opens on Cold Bath Road
Harrogate student to run length of Britain after losing father to brain cancer
Knaresborough Town Women win West Riding League Cup
