“The middle school boys ISSH Rams represented the school superbly in a secondary first off-site team competition of the year, for unihockey. The round robin at the International School of Berne (ISB) had the team face five challenging opponents from Verbier International School (VIS), ISB and La Côte International School (LC).
Sporting their new kits with ‘isshy’ the mascot, the boys came out strong with a 5-0 win over VIS. Isaac Schulz emerged as a key goal scorer on offense early, and the ‘diamond’ formation proved effective as the boys read the floor effectively setting up a strong offense. Substitutions rolled quickly with some less experienced players demonstrating their right to be there: Juan Ibanez and Solomon Poletto. Ole Burkart ‘stood on his head’ in goals, which the team then relied on in the next 4 of 5 matches.
The results of the next games were 2-2 vs ISB2, 2-4 vs ISB1, 2-2 vs LC1 and 0-6 vs LC2, with some teams consisting primarily of Cat C (under 14) players, who play regularly in team competitions. Max Muller was run ragged on defense in the last game, holding a professional Swiss U16 player to only 5 goals. James Mann was in every corner looking for possession and demonstrating resilience. Crucial on defense, adding size and experience to the team were Oskar Nilsson and Gregor Wehle. The team earned a position in the playoff for 3rd place overall, leading the goal differential, where they emerged with a 2-0 victory over ISB2. Davide Orsolini was a playmaker on offense, always finding the open space. Henrik Wehle was forced to demonstrate physical toughness as he took a high stick to the eye in the final game; an unlucky injury which was the only one (from any team) at the tournament.
ISSH really held their own displaying both skilled game play, team play and admirable sportsmanship. Tournament organisers commented on the attitude and behaviour of the ISSH players as being very positive, friendly and respectful. A huge thank you is owed to Nate Reasoner at ISB for organising and operating the tournament, and Alina Oschner for accompanying the team and photo taking. Coach Trahan is extremely proud of the boys who brought home the bronze, 3rd medal trophy, for ISSH. Go Rams!