20 November 2025
KGS AJIS U8/U9 Mixed Hockey Festival
On Friday 17th October, Kirkham Grammar School proudly hosted the AJIS U8/U9 Mixed Hockey Festival for the second consecutive year and what a day it was! With over 100 enthusiastic pupils from a growing number of schools, the festival was a vibrant celebration of youth hockey, teamwork, and sporting spirit.
From the first whistle to the final pass, the pitches buzzed with energy as players showcased their developing skills, played with determination, and embraced the joy of friendly competition. Each match brought new challenges and opportunities to shine, with teams rotating to face a variety of opponents in a dynamic and inclusive format.
The atmosphere was electric, filled with cheers, high-fives, and moments of brilliance. But what truly stood out was the outstanding sportsmanship on display. Players supported one another, celebrated successes, and demonstrated the true spirit of hockey, passion, respect, and camaraderie.
To round off the day, each school team nominated a Players' Player an award that recognised those who inspired their teammates through effort, attitude, and kindness on the field. It was the perfect way to honour the values that made the festival so special.
KGS is proud to have hosted such a memorable event and looks forward to welcoming even more schools next year.
KGS U13 Rugby Festival
On Wednesday, October 15, Kirkham Grammar School kicked off its first-ever Under 13s 10-a-side Rugby Festival with a bang! Fourteen teams from every corner of the country descended on the school, ready to battle it out in a display of raw talent and fierce determination. The rugby on show was nothing short of electrifying, with Aysgarth School and The King’s School, Pontefract stealing the spotlight in the group stages with their dazzling plays and relentless energy. The quarter-finals and semi-finals across all four competitions were nail-biting clashes, each match pushing the young athletes to their limits. It all built up to an epic Cup Final showdown between the hosts, Kirkham Grammar, and the formidable Beechen Cliff School from Bath. In a heart-pounding finale, Beechen Cliff unleashed a breath-taking performance, clinching the title and leaving the crowd roaring. What a way to launch Kirkham’s inaugural festival!
U16 Hockey vs Repton School
The U16 squad took to the pitch in their third England Hockey tier one national league match against Repton School. It was always going to be a tough game but KGS were ready with all players up for the challenge. The match started well with KGS retaining the ball, looking wide to open up the pitch. Bailey and Whittle created space at both right and left mid allowing for Melling and Schofield to make some excellent runs upfront. Miles, Osborne and Edwards controlled the spine of the pitch whilst the defence worked tirelessly to keep the ball out. Murro made some outstanding tackles releasing the ball to Hartley-Smith to build on the attack. Whilst the squad conceded 3 goals, Osborne hit back with a reverse stick lifted shot that Guthrie Volleyed into the roof of the net to bring it back to 3-1. Another outstanding performance from a very talented squad.
They now prepare to take on Sullivan Upper School from Ireland before travelling to GSAL after the half term break.
U13A Hockey vs Dollar Academy
In their first match on Saturday 11 October the U13A girls' hockey team took on Dollar Academy. KGS started the first half well and where on the attack for most of the first half, Tilly Best being especially industrious on the right side of attack, but the team were unable to covert any of their scoring opportunitues. Dollar academy entered the KGS circle once and where able to score . They went into half-time leading 1-0. KGS responded well after the half time break and driven forward by Nancy Lawson were able to dominate the second half in all aspects scoring three goals and eventually winning 3-1.
U13A Hockey vs Westholme
In their second match on Saturday 11 October the U13A girls' hockey team took on Westholme. They started in a similar fashion to their first game with the team on the attack for the majority of the first half, but unable to convert their scoring opportunities. Both Nancy Lawson and Holly Norcross hitting the attacking goal post on two seperate occasions. Westholme started seizing the initiated in the first half and score three quick goals going into half time with a 3-0 lead. They scored another shortly after half time, but the KGS responded with dogged determiniationa dn were able to clawe a goal back and were on the attack for the rest of the half, but were just not able to convert their opportunities. The finak score was 4-1 to Westholme. In both matches the U13As showed that they are capable of playing attractive attacking hockey and must be commended for their positive work ethic and determination in both games.
U12A Hockey vs Westholme
The U12As once again showed why they are a hockey force to be recond with this season. They confortably won their match against Westholme 4-0. Although only leading 1-0 at half time, the KGS side dominated the first half both in terms of possession and goal scoring opportunities. After the half time break the U12As played some constructuive hockey and were able to engineer numerous goal scoring opportunities. They scored another three goals. The U12As must be commened for their team spirit and for the quality of hockey they are playing.
U13B Hockey vs Westholme
The U13B's once again delivered a stong hockey performance to beat their opponents 2-0 on Saturday morning. After a nervy start, they foud their rythym in attack and were solid in defence that wasled by Rocky Ralston. The team must be commended for their teamspirit and determination as they continued to battle their opponets to the end.
U16 Rugby vs QEGS Wakefield (22 v 20)
The undefeated U16’s travelled to Wakefield expecting their first serious challenge of the season, QEGS were the first to score after 10 minutes when the referee awarded a penalty try for a high tackle as the QEGS hooker was diving for the line, with Clarke, Walls, Gillett and Jennings all unavailable, losing Griggs after 15 minutes was far from ideal but Pendlebury stepped in and maintained a steady supply a ball to the backs, soon after Taylor drove over for Kirkham’s first score, it was Taylor again 5 minutes later who charged over, soon after it was Taylor who received a yellow card which allowed QEGS to find some space down the blind side to score in the right corner, to give QEGS a 12-10 lead at half time.Kirkham started the second half with some strong running and support play allowing Virdee to regain the lead, but QEGS again worked their way back up the field assisted by some Kirkham indiscipline, scoring in the left corner to regain the lead 19-15, Kirkham powered back again with Kelso, Virdee, Davies and Martins leading the charge up front and Gildea and Paraskeva having strong games in the backs, after several phases it was Martins who scored to give Kirkham the lead again, before Martins got on the wrong side of the referee once too many times and was shown Yellow, allowing QEGS to work up field and convert a penalty to put them 2 points ahead, although Kirkham fought hard to have the last word a resilient QEGS kept them out.
1st XV Rugby vs Terenure College (10-43)
On Friday 10th October, Kirkham Grammar hosted a formidable touring side in Terenure College from Dublin, who brought both their 1st and 2nd XVs for a challenging set of fixtures at Preston Grasshoppers RFC. The Terenure 1st XV arrived with a strong pedigree, having been runners-up in last season's Leinster Schools Cup. Expectations are high for the visitors this year, as their squad is being heralded as potentially their strongest in two decades, with aspirations of making the Leinster final once again.
The match proved to be a stern test for the Kirkham 1st XV, particularly in a difficult first half. Terenure immediately showed their class, playing with high tempo and impressive accuracy in attack, which Kirkham's defence struggled to contain.
Kirkham's own efforts were hampered by self-inflicted wounds. A combination of lineout errors and handling mistakes significantly limited their possession and continuity. The visitors were clinical, punishing every lapse to build a substantial lead. By the half-time whistle, Terenure had registered four unanswered tries, leaving the score heavily in their favour.
Despite the deficit, Kirkham Grammar displayed significant character and resilience in the second half. The team dug deep and mounted an impressive fightback, showcasing the spirit of the squad.
The comeback began to gain traction with two well-worked tries. The first came from Harry Marsh, followed by another from Freddie Ferguson, helping to claw the score back to 29-10 and inject momentum back into the home side's performance.
As the game entered its final ten minutes, Kirkham's persistent lineout issues unfortunately resurfaced. These set-piece errors handed Terenure crucial possession deep inside the Kirkham 22, allowing the clinical Irish side to regain the ascendancy.
Terenure capitalized swiftly, first scoring a try after a clever chip kick was executed into open space. Shortly after, with territory once again established in the Kirkham 22, the visitors powered over for their sixth and final try of the evening, putting a conclusive stamp on the scoreline.
Hockey Fixtures vs Dollar Academy
On Saturday 11 October, we welcomed Dollar Academy from Scotland to KGS to play some class fixtures. The U16 squad got the morning started with some excellent play and opportunities through on goal. It took some time for them to convert but Melling slotted home a superb goal in the second half of the game. Whilst KGS were on top of the game, Dollar threatened on occasion demonstrating real pace moving forward.
The 1st XI followed in what was set to be a tough game. They worked hard from the first whistle but it wasn’t long before Dollar converted a well worked penalty corner. Great work from Southern, Smith and Whiteside allowed play to move forward fast with Gut demonstrating pace at left mid to open up the game.
Although the girls played well, they were defeated by a top Dollar squad.
The final home game of the morning was our U15’s. The squad played some excellent hockey using the width of the pitch to expose the Dollar defence. It wasn’t long before the first goal was converted followed by several more. Mackenzie, Maclean-Bristol and Jennings found lots of space in the midfield to further expose the Dollar defence with McGarry delivering some excellent shots towards goals.
U14 Hockey vs Westholme
The U14 girls travelled to Westholme School for an exciting fixture and started the match strongly, showing great attacking intent from the first whistle. Despite creating several early chances, Westholme’s goalkeeper produced some impressive saves to keep KGS at bay. KGS continued to dominate possession and pile on the pressure, and their persistence was finally rewarded just before half-time when Ava G produced a brilliant individual goal to break the deadlock. After the restart, the KGS forwards maintained their energy and determination, working tirelessly to stretch the Westholme defence. Their efforts paid off when Amelia fired home a superb strike to double the lead. As the final whistle approached, KGS sealed the victory when Maisie G reacted quickest in a goalmouth scramble, slotting the ball home to make it 3–0. It was a fantastic all-round team performance, with strong attacking play, great teamwork, and solid defence throughout. Player of the Game: Ava G. Well played, girls!
U14 Hockey vs AKS
The U14 Hockey team opened their Tier 1 Cup campaign with a competitive fixture against AKS. The game began at a high intensity, with both sides showing great determination and skill. It was an end-to-end first half, with neither team able to fully break down the other’s defence. AKS took the lead midway through the first half after a swift counterattack, but KGS responded brilliantly with a well-worked team goal, linking play neatly through the midfield and attack to level the score at 1–1 going into half-time. The second half continued in the same competitive spirit, with both teams battling hard for control. In the final minutes, AKS managed to edge ahead, scoring two quick goals before adding a fourth in the last play of the game. Despite the 4–1 scoreline, it was a strong performance from the KGS girls, who showed resilience, teamwork, and great promise throughout. They now look forward to their next challenge in the Plate competition. Good luck, girls!
Senior Hockey Team vs AKS
The Senior Hockey team produced an outstanding performance in their fixture against Westholme, dominating from the very first whistle. KGS showed excellent energy and teamwork early on, with sharp passing and dynamic movement through the midfield and forward lines. Early goals set the tone, as KGS raced into a 2–0 lead within the first five minutes. The defence pressed high up the pitch, creating numerous attacking opportunities and keeping the pressure firmly on Westholme. Despite the relentless KGS attacks, credit must go to the Westholme goalkeeper, who delivered an impressive display under constant pressure. KGS continued to capitalise on their chances, extending their lead to 7–0 by half-time. After the break, both teams made several changes, but KGS maintained their momentum, showcasing depth and consistency across the squad. Well done, girls!
U15 Netball vs St Marys – Sisters in Sport Cup
The U15 Netball team began their Sisters in Sport Cup campaign with an impressive performance against St Mary’s. The game started at a high tempo, with both teams evenly matched in the opening quarter. Some excellent shooting from Harriet T and Juliette ensured KGS kept pace, while the defensive pairing of Florence and Katy worked tirelessly to prevent St Mary’s from gaining an advantage. At half-time, the scores were level at 20–20, setting up an exciting second half. After a focused team talk, KGS came out firing in the third quarter, displaying great determination and teamwork. Outstanding work through the centre court from Amelia, Hettie, Lois, and Harriet M saw KGS take control of the game, finishing the quarter with a 30–22 lead. The momentum continued into the final quarter as KGS extended their advantage, showing composure and confidence across the court. The match ended with a well-deserved 43–31 victory for KGS, securing their place in the next round of the competition.
Players of the Match: Florence and Harriet M. A fantastic team effort — well done, girls! We look forward to the next round.
U16 Hockey vs Oakham School and Sedbergh School
Our U16 squad have got their national tier 1 league off to a flying start with two impressive performances.
The first fixture saw kgs travel to Oakham School. The hockey was top class with okay moving from end to end. Oakham opened the scoreline first with a snapshot in front of goal. KGS came back with a great goal from Miles. It was clear that this game was set to be very close with both teams producing some excellent midfield play. Oakham hit back once again to take the game to 2-1 only for Whittle to slot away a well worked corner to take the game to 2-2 at the final whistle.
In their second game KGS were on the road again, but this time to Sedbergh. The squad had a slow start but still managed to open up space for Melling to slot the ball past the keeper. Great work in midfield from Whittle, Osborne and Bailey created space for Miles and Melling to create opportunities in the D.
A well worked corner from Osborne and Bailey allowed Osborne to drag the ball into the back of the net to take the game to 2-1.
With great defending from Murro and Edwards the girls dug deep to keep the ball whilst playing at a high intensity.
Sedbergh evened the game up but Melling wasn't finished, managing to slot another goal home to make it 3-2.
In the dying minutes of the game Sedbergh equalised from a corner taking the game to 3-3 at the final whistle.
1st XV Rugby vs Sedbergh School
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On Wednesday 1st October, In a closely fought and high-quality contest, Kirkham Grammar School 1st XV overcame an early deficit to defeat Sedbergh School 1st XV 18-7. The match was a superb display of disciplined defence and clinical finishing, with both teams contributing to an exciting spectacle.
The game started on a difficult note for KGS. Kirkham conceded two consecutive penalties in the opening phases—one for tackle height and another for not rolling away—which gifted Sedbergh prime field position. From the ensuing 5-metre lineout, Sedbergh capitalised on their time in the Kirkham 22, crossing the line for the opening score and an early 7-0 lead after the conversion.
However, Kirkham soon got a foothold when Sedbergh gave away a penalty, allowing Kirkham to kick into the opposition corner. Sedbergh successfully defended the resulting Kirkham maul, but centre Ed Millachip made crucial yards with a powerful carry off the back. After a few tight pick-and-go’s, Kirkham shifted the ball wide. Winger Will Kelso managed a sublime offload out of the tackle, sending Cole Cullen over in the corner for an unconverted try. The score narrowed to 7-5.
The middle portion of the half saw Kirkham demonstrate incredible patience in defence, working relentlessly to close down every Sedbergh attack. The defensive effort paid off on the half-hour mark when Kirkham secured a scrum penalty in their own half. Fly-half Cieran Milligan found a superb touch, kicking Kirkham just outside the Sedbergh 22. A well-executed lineout move went wide, then switched back to the far touchline where Charlie Bray carried hard and offloaded to the supporting Ed Millachip. Now deep in the 22, Kirkham won another penalty, this time for a high tackle. Cieran Milligan stepped up to calmly slot the three points, giving Kirkham a narrow 7-8 lead. Sedbergh mounted a final attack before the break, but the Kirkham defence was impenetrable, ensuring the score remained unchanged at half-time.
Sedbergh received the second-half restart and, after a few phases, kicked to exit. Milligan took the high ball cleanly, and Kirkham played up the middle before Milligan put in a clever kick behind the Sedbergh defence. Fullback Cole Cullen and right wing replacement Freddy Ferguson chased brilliantly, with Ferguson securing possession back in the Sedbergh half. Sedbergh were immediately caught offside, and Milligan again made no mistake with the boot, adding another three points to extend the lead to 7-11.
Sedbergh pressed hard, but a forward pass handed Kirkham a scrum. Kirkham attacked wide, making excellent ground through Cullen, but the move ended with a knock-on a few phases later. Sedbergh's attack was relentless, yet Kirkham's grit shone through when Archie Blackburn managed a crucial rip in the tackle, turning over possession and putting Kirkham back on the front foot. Sedbergh soon conceded a breakdown penalty, which Milligan kicked into the 22.
From the lineout, Jamie Cope peeled off the back of the maul and got Kirkham to the 5-metre line. In the next phase, Sedbergh illegally slapped the ball down, resulting in a Kirkham scrum. Number eight Bray picked up from the base, went left, and fed winger Josh Sumner who finished in the corner for Kirkham's second try. Cieran Milligan converted with a superb kick from the touchline, taking the score to 7-18.
The final twenty minutes were scoreless, despite both teams attacking with skill and width. Defences held firm on both sides, with neither team able to find a way to break through. The match ended 7-18 to Kirkham. Both teams can be proud of the high-quality, competitive rugby and the excellent spirit in which the game was played.
U13 Cross Country at Sedbergh School
The U13 girls travelled to Sedbergh School for their annual invitational cross country event. With a team of 1st and 2nd year pupils, the team set off on a challenging course. O'Mahoney lead the way with our pack of runner close behind.
Out of a field of 90 runners, all our athletes ran incredibly well producing some excellent results and finishing in 4th place overall.
Individual results were as follows;
Millie O'Mahoney 19th
Sienna Mitchell 24th
Paloma Thompson 25th
Tilly Best 26th
Philippa Pearson 27th
Allana Livesey 30th
Esme Bradley 39th
U16 Netball Report
The U16 squad made a great start to their season in the first round of the cup.
All players linked up well together with Ely and Houlihan dominating the court. Murro excelled in the middle with Roberts and Verstraelen working hard together to create chances in front of goal. Munro worked tirelessly to create chances and form great link up play moving forward. Next round the girls face Harrogate Grammar School.
U16 XI and 1st XI Hockey vs Millfield Somerset
The annual Millfield fixture took place once again this season and as always it was set to be very exciting indeed. The U16 squad were up first. Whilst absorbing much pressure in the first 10 minutes, Murro, Edwards and both Hartley-Smiths defended well to keep Millfield out. It wasn’t long before the KGS side started to dominate with Whittle, Osborne and Bailey controlling the middle resulting in a goal from Schofield.
An injury changed the formation with Bailey dropping to defence. This didn’t face the girls as they continued to press hard holding much of the possession. A very well deserved 1-0 victory. The 1st XI followed with the side playing under lights. The girls pressed hard with Bunday, Smith and Greenwood controlling the middle of the park. Great runs from Whiteside and Gut opened up space for Cooper and Jennings to attack goal. One conversion led to another with Greenwood slotting the ball home from a well worked corner. The result, on this occasion, didn’t go our way but it was a great game to watch finishing 2-1 to Millfield.
U14 Netball vs Westholme – National Cup
The U14 squad took to the court in their first league game of the season. They were faced with a strong Westholme side but with great performances from Butler-Reid and Kane-Long they battled hard to keep possession of the ball. Murro and Kerr linked up well with Hargreaves working hard mid court. The squad now face a team from the North East in round 2.