"Our coach told us if we work hard defensively then the opportunity to attack would present itself. We as a team defended well and our young players stood up to the challenge."
Huanui's defensive expertise was obvious as they rampaged their way into the final having scored a whopping 39 goals, and conceding only one goal in five games.
The outstanding for-and-against record was of particular satisfaction for Codlin and his team.
"We wanted to play expansive and attractive passing hockey, which I can say we produced throughout the week," he said, adding his younger brother Ethan bagged six goals in one half during pool play. "That was pretty amazing for [Ethan], the team played well and created the opportunities which he took."
Coach Richard Redfearn, who recently moved to Whangarei and started at Huanui College earlier this year, praised the efforts of his players.
"The team played extremely well and you can't do much more than win it but it was the way we won it [that] the school, players, and parents can be proud of.
"We trained Sunday evenings to prepare for this tournament and I know how much it meant to all involved.
"The parents are very supportive and our team manager Michele Codlin worked overtime to secure supportive sponsors and to ensure our week went smoothly off the field. Everybody pitched in and it is gratifying to have a positive result."
Redfearn had the assistance of fellow teacher Patrick Dodd to keep the kids on track with their study along with parent support at the event.
Huanui
Dylan Codlin (c), James Mortimer, Patrick Winton, Joseph Macmenigall, Emma Wickham, James Agnew, Brandon Ahlers, Ashlee Greenhalgh, Cailyn Prisk, Emma Sanders, Kelsey Eaton, Liam Mortimer, Oliver Hawker, Aaron Greenhalgh, Justine Milina.
