Bulldogs Ball Hockey Under-13s excel at Winter Qualifiers

HAVING A BALL: Bradford Bulldogs Under-13 Ball Hockey team, pictured at the Bench Buddy Arena on Satuday at the Winter Qualifiers.

BRADFORD BULLDOGS Under-13 Ball Hockey team enjoyed another successful day at the Junior Nationals Winter Qualifiers staged at Rotherham’s Bench Buddy Arena. 

Overall the team placed third out of six teams taking part at their age group level, producing some terrific performances on what was a long day of action. 

The day started off with the announcement of the team’s leadership group, Timur Sprogis being handed the ‘C’, with Jonas Mthethwa and Samson Collins being made assistants. 

Ball Hockey GM, Aimee Clarke, said: “Timur brings years of knowledge of how the game should be played and is fantastic at encouraging the team no matter what the score line.

“Jonas started his ball hockey journey with us last season and made a huge impact not just on the scoreline but also the team dynamic. His attitude and love for the game shines every tournament.

LEADERS: Under-13 captain Timur Sprogis (centre) flanked by assistants Samson Collins (left) and Jonas Mthethwa. 

“Samson is a 2024 newbie and what a blessing he has been to the team. From his humour to his never-ending energy on the court, he has been the perfect addition to the team.”

The tournament started out with a 4-1 defeat to Sheffield Steelers, with Jonas Mthethwa bagging the Bulldogs goal while netminder Jack Clarke repelled a barrage of shots on his net. 

Evan Bulmer came to the fore in the next game when his four goals led the Bulldogs to an 8-2 win over neighbouring rivals, Leeds Rams - Timur Sprogis, Stephen Abdy, Jonas Mthethwa and Samson Collins also got on the board.

Jonas was on the board for the following game against Nottingham Stingrays, but it was a tough encounter as the opponents ran out comfortable 8-1 winners. 

The Bulldogs bounced back in great style though, led by a shutout performance from Jack Clarke, they enjoyed a 9-0 win over Huskie Dark. 

Alfie McAlinden led the way with a hat-trick, with Evan Bulmer (2), Timur Sprogis, Jonas Mthethwa and Stevie Adby also getting on the scoresheet. 

Timur and Evan were on the board again in the following game, a 2-0 win over Stingrays Maroon, before the Bulldogs rounded off the day in style with a 5-1 win over Humberside Havoc. 

A captain’s performance saw Timur lead the way with three goals, while Evan added a couple more to his haul for the day, the win securing a third place finish overall for the Bulldogs.

Ball Hockey GM, Aimee Clarke, said: “We strive on teamwork and believing in each other and, in the end, we try to make sure that it’s about having fun. fun is what it is about!

“It was a long day and we want to thank all the kids and parents for making the effort and commitment.”