Munro College and Immaculate Conception High have made their intentions known when they opened their 2024 Inter-Secondary Sports Association (ISSA)/Jamaica Hockey Federation (JHF) Under-19 School League Hockey Tournament with commanding victories on Thursday.

Munro, who finished second in the boys’ group last year, defeated Clan Carthy High 4-0 in the opening game at the Mona Hockey Field in St Andrew. Immaculate, who finished second in the girls’ class last year, also defeated The Queen’s School 4-0 in their second match of the day.

Munro began the new season with high spirits, aiming to make an impression. Their attacking brilliance was on full show as they scored their first win with goals from Ajani Joseph (three in the second, 30th, and 34th minutes) and Daniel Bowen (one in the 26th minute).

Immaculate showcased their offensive flair with goals from Zoe-Amdi Dondie in the second minute, Leighya Mair in the ninth minute, Zarah Green in the 12th minute, and Haylie Richards in the 13th minute, laying the groundwork for their tournament campaign.

The match of the day featured Wolmer’s Boys’ and York Castle High, which finished in a 1-1 draw.

The game was filled with tension and excitement as both sides fought for supremacy. Shamari Burrell opened the goal for Wolmer’s Boys’ in the 29th minute, but Adrian Hammond equalised for York Castle High barely two minutes later, in the 31st.

Despite multiple opportunities offered by both teams, neither could score the winning goal, leaving fans on the edge of their seats until the final whistle. The contest highlighted the young athletes’ fierce spirit and dedication, leaving spectators hungry for the tournament’s upcoming spectacular matches.