Barcelona 24-29 March 2005

A party of 16 ventured to Spanish shores in search of a relaxing time and some good hockey. We were not to be disappointed, although the number of teams within the tournament was sadly depleted by the withdrawal of a number of Irish sides, and the lack of any Spanish teams to test our skills against. More through luck than judgement we seemed to have a good mix of players, with all the various positions competently filled. A great camaraderie, along with the presence of some fine guest players, helped us to play some very good hockey against a variety of teams. The games themselves went very well, and were all played in an excellent spirit. We managed to keep clean sheets in all the games we played and somehow contrived to score almost two thirds of all the goals managed in the entire tournament. In reality it wasn't quite as easy as it may sound, but we did manage to walk away from the magnificent home of Atletico Terrassa with the trophy. As an added bonus we were also able to squeeze in a short trip to watch some of England's U16 and U18 youngsters playing in an international festival. In the words of one of our more senior players; "Best tour ever!".

or for a less serious take on events...

We arrived at our rather nice hotel in the centre of Barcelona after a brief fitness session, and from there enjoyed our first night out in this cultural centre. After much blood, sweat and tears we began the hockey tournament in earnest. It turned out only 4 men's sides would be in competition, but that didn't stop the visiting Norwich Union side (plus notable guests) from fielding a fairly formidable line-up which eventually won the tournament without conceding a goal. Despite a number of the team staying out til gone 6am drinking before the final, accusations that we were taking everything too seriously came from our opponents. Their view changed somewhat once the first of the uncontrolled vomiting attacks occurred. Sadly the hockey finished early (on the Saturday), which left Sunday and Monday with relatively little planned and only alcohol-retailing ventures open for business. It did, however, give us a chance to watch some of the England U16 and U18 youngsters in competition coincidentally in Barcelona for the same weekend.

The tournament organisers, thoughtfully, had already laid on an evening at the Baja Beach Club (don't ask) which suitably captured the imaginations of one or two of our party, and we returned there after first securing some more alcohol and a bit of food. This venue seems to have been the backdrop for over half the total number of photos taken whilst on tour.

In summary, the hockey was pretty good (at least we enjoyed it and met some nice folks) and the alcohol flowed freely throughout. The only thing missing seems to have been sleep, and that is, apparently, over-rated anyway!

Below are organisations whose assistance proved invaluable.