Mandatory Experimental Rule
8.1 A goal is scored when: The ball is played by an attacker, or touches the stick or body of a champion, within the circle; either of these actions after, the ball does not travel outside the circle before passing completely over the goal-line and under the cross-bar.
The understanding and enforcement of the new rule has been an issue. Umpires find some difficulties at an early stage of the tournament but slowly the teams got used to the idea. On the women’s side, the ladies showed increasing interest in participation at the official games. At present, a number of players are willing to work under the direction of Katherine Pérez Santiago who was appointed first female Director at Puerto Rico National Junior Championship.
We had the chance to appreciate a number of details along the matches, but it was remarkable Hato Rey HC’s potential. It became clear the gap between Hato Rey HC and Caguas HC, both teams playing the finals. Not only was the score important. Players such as Katherine Mckinley showed her growth. She was albe to control ‘player of the year’, Leticia Feeney’s pace. The participation of Patricia Delgado and Leticia Feeney were the key for Hato Rey’s success. The finals standings were proclaimed after two games. Hato Rey beat Caguas 9-0 in the first match and 5-0 in the second, getting a final result of 14-0 for the series.
Hato Rey HC is the new Puerto Rico’s National Champion.
