SIXTEEN teams took part in a junior hockey festival at Hawick last Sunday, organised by the Borders Hockey Development team.
The sides represented three Borders clubs – Peebles, Kelso and Fjordhus Reivers – with players coming from all over the region to play five games each.
All the children got plenty of time to showcase their skills in a competitive situation and for many it was their first festival.
Janet Jack of the Borders hockey development team said: “All these players learn their hockey skills on a regular weekly basis in their clubs and the festival environment gives them the opportunity to practice these skills in small-sided games.
“The games are always competitive, and participation and competition at this age is of key importance rather than the winning.
“All players are encouraged to promote fair play and sportsmanship.”
Parents, grandparents, siblings and friends came along to show their support and were grateful for the bacon rolls, teas and coffees laid on by the Hawick parents.
Jack added: “Many thanks as always goes to the coaches who provide enjoyable and fun sessions for the children on a weekly basis and to the many volunteers in hockey who selflessly give up their time to give the children the opportunity to play hockey.
“Thanks also to Robbie from Hunters in Hawick for providing the rolls on the day.”