Home

UGSHA 2026: Williams claim crown as Upper Great Southern Hockey Association’s junior season finishes in style

Headshot of Claire Middleton
Claire MiddletonNarrogin Observer
The Williams junior hockey team that won the UGSHA’s J11 competition with coaches Ben Kealy and Ben Cole.
Camera IconThe Williams junior hockey team that won the UGSHA’s J11 competition with coaches Ben Kealy and Ben Cole. Credit: UGSHA

The Upper Great Southern Hockey Association’s junior school competitions ended on Saturday with Williams claiming the J11 title.

The J11 competition is for players in years 4-6 and included teams from Williams, Narrogin, Brookton, Wickepin and Lakers, which brings together athletes from Dumbleyung and Wagin.

After some close games, Williams were crowned champions after finishing top of the ladder.

While the J11 players tackle a full-sized pitch, the J7 competition uses modified rules and is based on participation as well as developing skills and a love for the game.

It is for players in years 2-4 and they were thrilled to hear from Fleur Ford, who represented Australia in the over-45s at the recent Masters World Cup.

UGSHA Boys’ fairest and best winner Noah Wilkie, State country hockey player Zaria Francis, and girls’ fairest and best winner Kobie Ward.
Camera IconUGSHA Boys’ fairest and best winner Noah Wilkie, State country hockey player Zaria Francis, and girls’ fairest and best winner Kobie Ward. Credit: UGSHA

She shared her thoughts and showed off her medal.

The association’s fairest and best awards were presented to Noah Wilkie, of Dingoes, and Kobe Ward, of Lakers.

Zaria Francis, of Warriors and who represented the WA country team, presented the medals.

Each team also recognised a male and female recipient for a sportsperson award, celebrating those who demonstrated sportsmanship, teamwork and a positive attitude throughout the year.

UGSHA junior co-ordinator Evelyn Wilkie said the team coaches deserved a big thank you.

“The patience, encouragement and support they have shown our junior players throughout the season has been exceptional,” she said.

“Junior sport simply cannot happen without people willing to volunteer their time each week, and we are extremely grateful for the commitment they have shown to their teams and to junior hockey.”

Sportsmanship award winners from the UGSHA’s  junior competitions with WA State country representative Zaria Francis.
Camera IconSportsmanship award winners from the UGSHA’s junior competitions with WA State country representative Zaria Francis. Credit: UGSHA

Hearing from Masters representative Ford was also a highlight.

“It was a wonderful opportunity for our youngest players to hear from someone from our own hockey community who has gone on to represent Australia on the international stage,” Ms Wilkie said.

Get the latest news from thewest.com.au in your inbox.

Sign up for our emails