Official Opening of new Astroturf Pitch

On Wednesday 8th October, the School was pleased to welcome Simon Mason and Richard Mantell to officially open the newly constructed all weather Astroturf pitch.

Simon Mason unveils the plaque in the company of Richard Mantell, Mr M Collison (Head of Hockey)
and Miss E Conidaris (Director of Sport)

Simon Mason is widely recognised as one of the finest goalkeepers to play Hockey. In an impressive career, Simon gained 120 England and 74 Great Britain caps. He represented Great Britain at three Olympic Games, whilst also playing for England at two Commonwealth Games, three World Cups and three European Cups.

Richard Mantell is currently playing for Reading HC and has represented England on 57 occasions and also has 34 Great Britain caps. He has played for England at a World Cup and a European Championship and has recently returned from the Beijing Olympics.

Following a skills demonstration and coaching session by both players earlier in the afternoon, Simon officially opened the Astro, unveiling the plaque in front of players and a large audience of pupils, staff, Old Dauntseians and parents.

There then followed three exhibition matches:

• Boys 1st XI v Girls 1st XI (2-0)

• Boys 1st XI v Male Invitation XI (comprising staff, ODs and Richard and Simon) (1-3)

• Girls 1st XI v Female Invitation XI (comprising staff and ODs) (0-0)

The event took place in brilliant sunshine, and was a wonderful spectacle, supported extensively by pupils and staff alike.