Southern had both a Girls and a Boys Team playing in Division 2 against teams from all around the state.

The girls had the early start on the Monday with a rain squall blowing through as their game commenced. That didn't deter them and they put together a convincing 3-0 win against Port.

While the play was very crowded, as many of the games were throughout the week, Southern had the bulk of play and the girls were getting used to playing together as a team.

The boys also got off to a good start with a 2-0 win over Whyalla.

Southern also had most of the attack in this game and only some excellent goalkeeping by the Whyalla goalie prevented the scoreline from completely blowing out in Southern's favour.

Over the week both teams played a total of 11 games each. The girls won four, drew four and lost two to finish a well deserved third in their Ddivision.

The boys won seven, drew two and lost two to come fourth in their Division.

The boys' competition was extremely tight as Southern were only one point behind the three other teams that tied for equal first place. This was an excellent effort by all.

Girls’ coach Joh Tokarski from Victor Harbor High School was pleased with the progress the players made as the week progressed.

It was evident that everyone had grown in confidence on the field and got on well together off-field.

Joh was well supported during the week by Assistant Coach Gemma McKenzie, who did an excellent job both coaching and umpiring when required.

Leo Staak from Yankalilla Area School coached the boys’ team and was very pleased with the way all players were willing to have a go at whatever position they were asked to play in.

He also noted that Southern was the only team to have two goalkeepers that had also both managed to score a goal!

Leo's son Michael Staak also had a busy week fulfilling many of Southern's umpiring commitments and doing an excellent job.

Southern Team Manager Merridy Jagger from Victor Harbor R-7 School thanked the children for their excellent behaviour throughout the week and their parents for all their support.

Other members of the South Coast Hockey Association that were involved during the carnival were Sarah Walsh and her son Thomas who together coached the Southern Heights Boys Team, playing in Division 1. Sarah's other son Henry was also involved with umpiring during the week.

Congratulations go to Joel Mastroyannis from the Southern Boys who successfully tried out for the State SAPSASA Team during the carnival.

Joel has been selected as a goalkeeper and will be representing the state at the Pacific School Games to be held in Canberra during December this year. Well done to Joel and everyone wishes him the best of luck.

Three of the Southern Girls also tried out for the State team and, while not being selected, have shown great promise and have been invited to train for the next 12 months with Hockey SA's Under 12 Development Squad. Well done to Emma Watterson, Georgia Giffen and Jemima Walsh.

The carnival was deemed a great success and all involved had a great time while improving their hockey skills and making lots of new friends.