Amelia Thomas: Signs with RINKit Athletes and secures move to Clube Hóquei dos Carvalhos

At RINKit, our constant pursuit is to discover and nurture emerging talents. Today, we are thrilled to introduce Amelia Thomas as the latest addition to our roster of exceptional athletes. Amelia's journey in the world of Roller Hockey commenced at the tender age of 7 when she first laced up her roller skates as a member of Herne Bay United. Over the years, she honed her skills and progressed to join RHC Invicta, where her dedication and determination propelled her to the senior level, with her senior debut taking place at just 14 years old.

We firmly believe that Amelia possesses the potential to reach the top of the sport, and we are committed to standing by her every step of the way. Amelia is now embarking on an exciting new chapter in her hockey career, having signed with Clube Hóquei dos Carvalhos in Portugal this week. This remarkable opportunity signifies the beginning of a promising journey, and we have no doubt that Amelia's talent and passion will shine on an international stage.

Join us in welcoming Amelia Thomas to the RINKit Athlete family, and together, let's watch as she blazes a trail to success in the world of roller hockey

England U17 Female Team Inspires Despite Final Defeat

Tonight marked a historic moment for the young England U17 female team as they faced Portugal in a thrilling showdown. This clash came after both teams had previously battled to a 3-3 draw earlier in the competition, setting the stage for an exhilarating final. With both England and Portugal entering the match undefeated, the anticipation was palpable as someone's perfect record was destined to be broken.

Regrettably, for England, it was Portugal who emerged victorious, triumphing with a resounding 7-1 victory in the final. While the players and coaches may be disheartened by the outcome, it's important to recognize the immense joy and excitement they brought to their devoted fans. Their unwavering determination and fearlessness on the Rink have not only made their supporters proud but have also contributed significantly to elevating the profile of the Female game in England.

ENGLAND U17s

This exceptional team displayed remarkable courage, playing with determination until the very end and never giving up. Congratulations are in order from all of us at RINKit, and we encourage them to stand tall and take pride in their achievements. Until the next opportunity arises, they continue to inspire us with their dedication and passion for the sport.

England U17 Male's Triumphs Over Germany in Thrilling Battle

England's U17 male roller hockey team faced off against Germany today to determine their position in the rankings, with the winner earning the privilege to compete for 5th place tomorrow. England made a great start to the game as they surged ahead with a splendid one-two play between Hillam and Darbyshire. Darbyshire expertly slotted the ball into the net, putting England in the lead at 1-0.

The German team, displaying commendable resolve, managed to create several scoring opportunities, met with equally impressive saves from Clack in the England goal. Despite their efforts, it was Darbyshire who left an indelible mark once more, unleashing a powerful slap shot from outside the box that left the German keeper with no chance, extending England's lead to 2-0.

England continued to relentlessly bombard the German goal, but the German goalkeeper’s performance kept the English team at bay. The second half saw both teams enjoying their share of promising moments, with the Germans clawing one goal back, making the score 2-1 in favor of England.

England was then awarded a penalty opportunity, with Hillam stepping up to take the shot but failing to convert. Moments later, England earned another direct free-hit, and this time it was Darbyshire who assumed the responsibility. However, he was once again thwarted by the vigilant German goalie, squandering another chance for England to widen their lead.

As the clock ticked down and the German team adopted a more physical approach in their pursuit of goals, Sharp seized an opportunity in the box, scoring to make it 3-1 in favor of England. As Germany pressed aggressively for goals, team fouls started accumulating rapidly. England was once again granted a direct free-hit, with Sharp taking the responsibility. Unfortunately, much like the previous attempts, the German goalie came up with a crucial save.

England had ample opportunities to secure the victory long before the final buzzer, but they ultimately emerged as 3-1 winners in a roller hockey match that maintained a fast-paced and thrilling atmosphere from start to finish.

This means England will now face Switzerland for 5th - 6th place tomorrow 11:00 am

Courtenay-Barrow's Hat-Trick Leads England U17 Females to 3-2 Triumph Over France

The England U17 female team continued their impressive streak in the European Championships held in Italy, putting up another good performance against France. Their undefeated run remained intact as they faced off against France, with the opportunity to claim the top spot in their group.

During the first half of the match, England displayed a dominant presence in front of the goal, but they struggled to convert their numerous scoring opportunities. Lily-Rose had a chance from a direct but was unable to capitalize on it. Despite England's relentless attacks, France managed to seize an opportunity and slipped the ball past England’s goalkeeper, taking a 1-0 lead as the teams headed into halftime.

england in action against France

However, England's spirits were far from dampened. Captain Courtenay-Barrow emerged as their savior, expertly placing the ball into the corner of the French net. Shortly thereafter, Courtenay-Barrow had another opportunity from a direct, but once again, she couldn't find the mark. It was then France's turn to capitalize on a direct shot, extending their lead to 2-1.

England, showing incredible resilience, refused to back down. Courtenay-Barrow stepped up again, securing her second goal of the game, leveling the score at 2-2. Then, with only 13 seconds left on the clock, Courtenay-Barrow completed her remarkable hat-trick, sealing a thrilling 3-2 victory for the young England team. This incredible performance catapulted them to the top of their group, marking yet another impressive achievement in their journey through the tournament.

Darbyshire Doubles Up as England U17s Secure 3-2 Win in Group B Clash

The England U17 male team took to the rink for their decisive Group B match. Despite a strong start from England, a surprising turn of events occurred when Andorra secured the lead with a perfectly executed shot into the upper corner. However, the team found reassurance in their standout player, Darbyshire, who unleashed a remarkable long-range strike that found its mark in the top corner of the net.

In a matter of moments, Darbyshire once again showcased his prowess, embarking on a skillful run down the flank before delivering a precise pass to Allen positioned at the back post. Allen managed to nudge the ball over the line, resulting in a 2-1 scoreline at halftime. As the second half unfolded, England exhibited a sense of control over the game. It was Darbyshire who emerged as the hero once more, sneaking behind the goal to expertly convert a chance from the back post.

However, Andorra wasn't ready to concede defeat. A long-range effort managed to navigate its way through a crowd of players, ultimately eluding Clack in goal. Despite the challenge, England held their ground for the remainder of the match, ultimately securing a 3-2 victory. The team's outstanding performance throughout the tournament cannot be overlooked, culminating in a commendable third-place finish in Group B.

England Trio: Bolt, Chandler, and Courtenay-barrow all on Target in win over Germany

The England U17 Female team achieved an impressive victory against Germany! The first half was slow from England as they built their plays, creating numerous scoring opportunities. However, it was Germany who struck first, with a powerful long-range shot finding its way past Thorogood, England's goalkeeper. Just before half-time, Courtenay-barrow had a golden opportunity to equalize but narrowly missed the mark, leaving the score at halftime with England trailing 0-1 to Germany.

The second half saw England emerge with renewed vigor, and within minutes, Emily Bolt charged down the flank and expertly slotted the ball into the top of the net, leveling the score. England continued to apply pressure on the German defense but struggled to find the finishing touch. The Germans, meanwhile, launched their own attacks and felt they deserved a foul, though the referee disagreed. In a contentious moment, a German player took a swing at Chandler’s legs, resulting in the German team receiving a blue card.

England was awarded a direct, and Chandler stepped up with unwavering confidence, smashing the ball into the net to give England a 2-1 lead. However, Chandler's enthusiasm got the better of her, as she later fouled a German player and was shown a blue card in return. The Germans capitalised on the subsequent direct, making it 2-2. With both teams hungry for victory, they pressed forward, and Germany had the better chances.

But it was the England team's captain Courtenay-Barrow who rose to the occasion, executing a beautiful one-two with Bolt and calmly slotting the ball into the bottom corner with only seven seconds left on the clock. England emerged victorious in a thrilling match. The team's next challenge will be against France on Thursday at 2:00 pm.

England Match Stats v Germany

• Shots on Target: 16

• Shots off Target: 14

• Team Fouls: 7

• Balls Lost: 6

• Interceptions: 6

• Saves: 26

England U17s Surrender 3-0 Lead, Settle for 3-3 Draw Against Germany in European Championships

The England U17s faced off against Germany in the European Championships, seeking redemption following their loss to Switzerland the day before. The match showcased a markedly faster pace compared to yesterday's game, with England seizing control early on. Mackenzie secured the opening goal for England, swiftly followed by Darbyshire's powerful slap shot that eluded the opposing goalkeeper. Both teams enjoyed numerous scoring opportunities, but it was England that struck again. Captain Hopkins delivered a precise forward pass to Allen, who expertly placed the ball into the top corner of the net.

Germany retaliated with a shot that snuck past England's goalkeeper, Alex Clack. Shortly thereafter, Germany found the back of the net again, capitalizing on England's defensive lapse and leaving a player unmarked at the back post. The first half concluded with England leading 3-2 over Germany.

The second half commenced, and Germany wasted no time in equalizing with a powerful long-range shot. Both teams continued to create scoring chances, with Clack in England's goal making some impressive saves. Ultimately, an impressive England side held on for a 3-3 draw, showcasing their resilience and determination throughout the match.

England Match Stats v Germany

• Shots on Target: 31

• Shots off Target: 17

• Team Fouls: 5

• Balls Lost: 16

• Interceptions: 7

• Saves: 22

Dynamic Duo: Lily and Scarlett Shine in Thrilling U17 England vs. Portugal Clash

England's U17 female team delivered a sensational performance in their thrilling 3-3 draw against Portugal. They exemplified all the qualities needed to emerge victorious - tenacity, unity, and sheer determination.

Initially trailing 1-0 at halftime due to a goal by Ana Silva for Portugal, England made a bold move by changing their goalkeepers at the break.

Only five seconds into the second half, Mariana Teixeira struck again for Portugal, increasing their lead to 2-0. However, England's Captain, Scarlett Courtney Barrow, exhibited her leadership and skill, responding with a cleverly executed finish to reduce the deficit.

Unfortunately, Portugal quickly extended their lead to 3-1 with a goal from Diana Moreira. Yet, England refused to back down. Two rapid-fire goals, one from Courtney Barrow and another from Lily-Rose Chandler via the penalty spot, leveled the score at 3-3.

Back in June, we highlighted the potential of Lily-Rose Chandler, identifying her as a future star to watch. Her performance, alongside that of Courtney Barrow, reinforced that they are indeed the future of English Female Hockey.

Both England stars in action vs Portugal

The match showcased a tremendous team effort, and England is ready to take on Germany at 2 pm on Tuesday, aiming to continue their impressive run.