August 2014 = Zach Tait called up for GB Squad
15 year old Wardle Academy deputy head boy Zach Tait has been called to join the under 19’s Great Britain Underwater Hockey 2nd squad (GB2) , to play in the World Alternative Games. The games were held in Wales and team GB faced opposition from France, Spain, Netherlands and South Africa at the Newport International Sports Village on 20th August 2014. Zach has been coached and playing underwater hockey for nearly 7 years at Rochdale Underwater Hockey club where coaches Mick Hyde and Barrie Whitehead have been pleased by his achievement and said: “He has taken part in numerous matches and tournaments over the years against teams from all over the country and now has the opportunity to make a splash at international level. It takes a lot of effort just to make the selection.” Zach’s dad Ian, who also plays and coaches underwater hockey, said “ I am pleased for Zach that all his hard work has paid off. When he decided to go to the National trials he was aiming to get into the under 16’s GB squad only to be told the World Cup teams would be the U19 squad. Being only just 15 at the time I thought he had no chance as most players are 6ft plus being 18 or 19 years old. However, his determination pulled him through the 8 hour trial and he was selected. Very much a proud dad moment.” Zach is the tenth member of the Rochdale club to play for a GB squad, but the youngest so far. UPDATE: At the end of the tournament, the men’s u19 medal standings were - Gold – France Silver – GB 1 Bronze – The Netherlands GB2 came a credible 4th, just missing out on the medals in a hard fought game against the Dutch.