Surbiton HC Magazine - Early Summer 2020

SURBITON HOCKEY CLUB

MAGAZINE Early Summer 2020

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SURBITON HOCKEY CLUB MAGAZINE - EARLY SUMMER 2020

WELCOME

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Connect With Us

Welcome to the Early Summer 2020 edition of the SHC Magazine. It's been a strange time in hockey and the wider world over the last few weeks, but the spirit of our club has been clear to see throughout the recent lockdown. From epic fundraising efforts to volunteers for our 'One Big Team' initiative, online coaching and some amazing social media activity, it's great to see our club sticking together.

www.surbitonhc.com @SurbitonHC

Before the premature end to the hockey season, there was still plenty of on field action so do read on for results summaries, team reviews and some fascinating interviews with players, parents and one of our star umpires. Don't miss the great photos from our virtual End of Season Party, which around 150 of players from over half of our senior teams got involved in!

@surbitonhc

You'll also find the usual features - Meet the Teams (Ladies 5s and Cobras), Meet the Coaches, some editorial from our fantastic sponsors and a few important club updates.

As always, thanks to everyone who has contributed reports, information and articles to this issue. Any photography without specific image credits has been kindly provided by SHC players, teams and volunteers.

With a bit of luck, we will soon be back at Sugden Road and enjoying some hockey again. Until then, stay safe and look after each other..

Beckie Middleton SHC Magazine Editor

Ideas? Opinions? News?

We'd love to hear from you!

magazine@surbitonhc.com

DON'T MISS... p11-17: Season Summary &

Reviews p21-23: Special Feature: B2H -

"It's a Family Affair" p25: From the Archives - 80s

Classics p27-29: Virtual EOS Party p31-33: Meet the Teams (Ladies

5s & Cobras)

p43-45: Interview: Andy Parker

p64-66: Lockdown fundraising stories and social media

on his umpiring journey

Sponsors' Editorial

p47-49: Club Survey: Your club

p9: Bathroom Eleven

p41: A Postcard from... Perth

in the last 12 months p51-55: Interview: Brendan Creed on coping with injury p57-59: Meet the Coaches Ceci & Fred

p35-39: National League Reviews p61: Colts activity in lockdown

p19: Russell-Cooke Interested in sponsoring Surbiton HC? We'd love to hear from you!

To find out more, email the club's sponsorship team: sponsorship@surbitonhc.com

All information in this magazine is correct to the best of our knowledge at the time of publication.

Image credits are provided where possible.

Cover photo by Charlie Gooders Photography - @charliegoodersphotography

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A MESSAGE FROM YOUR CLUB PRESIDENT

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Andy Powdrell with an update on Surbiton HC in an unprecedented time for our sport Just over eight weeks ago, with the majority of the league season nearing completion, and many of our teams in strong positions to either win their leagues and/or gain promotion, the club was looking very healthy. Who was to know that the following week Hockey in England would be suspended! When it will resume is still uncertain and decisions on many leagues still to be confirmed by the relevant organising bodies, although we are pleased to have had promotions and league wins confirmed for a number of our teams.

The purpose of me writing is to let everyone connected with the club – players, supporters, volunteers, parents, and sponsors – know how we are getting on during the current situation.

As could probably be expected for a club of our size our finances are of paramount importance, and due to the past and present prudence of our Finance committee of Sean, Jacqui and in particular the evergreen Keith Wallis (who in normality would have stood down from his position of 15+ years as club treasurer at the AGM due to have taken place last Saturday) they are still in reasonable shape. Keith and the finance team are doing an unbelievable job ensuring that all measures available to us are being looked into.

On the organisational side Fred Moore also needs mentioning, the work Fred puts in behind the scenes is unbelievable.

There are many people working to ensure that when we do reopen we will do it in style. We are organising various events, parties, fundraisers and even some hockey – all we need to wait for is a date to kick everything off again. We are hopeful that there may yet be some summer hockey…

In addition to wider club success, our first teams both finished top and were looking forward to Playoffs and of course Europe.

Many supporters were also looking forward to going to watch both the M1 and L1 in EHL at Easter, and while it was a huge disappointment not to be able to go we must also think about other teams in the club missing out on some great success.

Both U14 girls and Boys were also representing us on the European stage, the first time that any club had four teams representing them in the same year.

There were teams from U10 Girls, U12 Girls and Boys, U14 Girls and Boys, U16 Girls and Boys due to represent the club in Regional and National Finals, who I am sure were looking forward to these events only to be disappointed at the cancellation. We also had numerous Colts who had been selected for their country, a great honour, unfortunately not to be taken up. Hopefully these opportunities will present themselves again in the very near future.

The cancellation of this year’s Olympic Games may also be beneficial to the club on the playing side. Many of you were probably aware that after the Olympics some of our senior internationals were leaving us to take the opportunity to play their club hockey in Europe. We are hoping that these decisions

will be delayed until after the Olympics next year and we keep the services of these fabulous players for another season.

I would also like to thank Will Fulker for keeping the minds of the Colts active with his numerous Hudl messages and videos – Colts if you haven’t seen them yet make sure you do. Some adults may also learn a thing or two from them. Liselle Carey has also been keeping us up to date via Teamo with forthcoming social media events, and club news.

Since lockdown many club members have been involved in various activities. Again many thanks those who have done the Q&As on a Thursday evenings: Zak and Tom, Giselle and Brendan, Hannah and Emily not forgetting Will and Frankie (I’m led to believe that there were many questions Will could not read out!).

All of our fundraisers…

Firstly a special mention to Calvin and the Men’s 4s for raising funds to purchase a new bike for a young paramedic who had hers stolen.

Alan Forsyth, what a fantastic achievement raising almost £8.5k.

Jamma Gall for his 2.6km ball juggle in aid of CRY, which has had a great knock on effect to other members of the club, with people squatting, kartwheeling, cycling and virtual ball passing.

Harry Gibson for completing a 12 hour throw and catch session with a Crazy Catch for care homes and care workers.

To all our other members and families who have taken part and raised money for charitable causes, how proud we are of you and the Club getting behind our local community in such unprecedented times.

It would be remiss of me not to mention our End of Season parties. I’m not sure how many there were… I managed to attend at least four. I think there were probably some people with heads as sore as they would have been had we been at the club! It is events such as these, team quiz nights via Zoom, remote beer pong, virtual get togethers that make Surbiton a fantastic club with a great club spirit.

As a club ever moving forward we are always looking for new ways to raise funds to support our teams and improve our facilities and I would appeal to all of you to look to see if there is any way you can assist the club by introducing new sponsors to us, or even by sponsoring yourselves. If anybody has any ideas about sponsorship or raising funds please contact me or any member of the board via the contact details on the club website.

Two final thank you’s: The SHC Board, led by Club Captain Carolyn, who continue to do a sterling job in ensuring the club is run well, and finally to all of you for your support to the club over not just last season, but seasons before and hopefully seasons going forward.

See you all soon!

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2019/20 Season Summary Despite an unfinished season in some cases, we've had some incredible success across the board this season. Well done everyone!

At the time of publication the outcomes of some leagues had been announced, while we are still waiting for a few others. Please keep an eye on our social media feeds and the club website for further announcements over the coming weeks. All information below is taken from the England Hockey, Fixtures Live and South Hockey websites and is correct to the best of our knowledge.

LADIES

MEN’S

Ladies 1s - National Champions & qualified for 2020/21 EHL [confirmed]

Men's 1s - National Champions & qualified for 2020/21 EHL [confirmed]

Ladies 2s - IWHL Conference West champions & promoted to National League Division 1 South [confirmed]

Men's 2s - winners of South Premier Division 2 West Men's 3s - winners of Hampshire/Surrey Regional Division 1

Ladies 3s - 8th South Division 1 Ladies 4s - 4th Surrey Prem Ladies 5s - 5th Surrey Division 1 Ladies 6s - 2nd Surrey Division 4, promoted into Surrey Division 3 [confirmed] Ladies 7s - 5th Surrey Division 6, promoted to Surrey Division 5 [confirmed]

Men's 3As - winners of London Hockey League Division 2 Men's 4s - winners of London Hockey League Division 3 Men's 5s - 9th Surrey Division 3 Men's 6s - 4th Surrey Open Hockey League Prem

Ladies 8s - 3rd Surrey Division 8

Sparticans - 3rd Surrey Open Hockey League Division 2

Ladies 9s - Surrey Division 8 champions, promoted to Surrey Division 6 [confirmed]

Cobras - winners of Surrey Open Hockey League Division 3

Ladies Golden Stick Standings 1st: Hannah Denison (Ladies 2s): 20 goals

Mongooses - winners of Surrey Open Hockey League Division 5

2nd: Sophia Swindell (Ladies 9s): 19 goals

Jokers - 5th London Hockey League O40s Division 1

3rd: Lisa Honnor (Ladies 7s): 18 goals

Magnets - 8th London Hockey League O50s Division 2 & 5th LHL O50s Trophy

4th: Raaniya Majid (Ladies 9s): 16 goals 5th: Sian Craze (Ladies 3s): 13 goals 6th: Erica Sanders (Ladies 1s): 11 goals 7th: Ellie Hatch (Ladies 6s): 10 goals =8th: Issy Carey (Ladies 2s), Alice Klugman (Ladies 2s), Jen Sessman (Ladies 6s): all 9 goals

Vintage - 8th London Hockey League O60s Division 1 & 5th LHL O60s Division 2 (No Men's Golden Stick Standings available)

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2019/20 Team Reviews Thank you to the teams who have sent in reviews of the season Ladies 4s – By Karen Reeves The Ladies 4s had another season in the impossible-to-getout-of league that is Surrey Premier, where we started with good intentions but our focus and concentration wavered depending on holidays, hangovers and who was selected from our huge squad of over 20! At our best, we smashed teams 5-0 and played some really great hockey, at our worst we got lots of cards, frustrated and saw results we should have won go against us: 3-2 losses were our bogey result of the season!

We had an injury free season for the first time in a while, our youngsters really grew in character and our two 18 year olds started partying on a Friday night; this also resulted in them turning up late to most games, adopting dogs en route to matches and turning up in the wrong places!

On the pitch, our backline excelled itself as ever, with Priya being our silent assassin as always, Libby came back for another season in goal and was also a star in some of our toughest games. New youngsters like Caragh, Emily, Ella and Sophie excelled and grew in confidence and ability, while Sally and Emma demolished midfield lines across the county with their long limbs and exceptional hand-eye coordination.

Regular over 30s, Ceci, Sunny, Karen and Charlotte kept up with the pace… somehow. Plus we had a new forward line in Carole, Bethan and Chantelle who helped get us points on the board and scored some great goals throughout the season.

Oxted dominated the league, leaving them at least seven points clear going into the last game. We would have finished somewhere in the top four, with one point in between second, third and fourth and us playing second placed Spencer in the last game (we normally beat them, so I'm saying we would have finished in second place!).

Our golden stick was tied between Carole Date-Chong, Caragh and Karen Reeves (all five goals).

Played 17, won 9, drew 3, lost 5. Scored 36 goals with 29 against!

Ladies 5s – By Ciara Aldous This year was a completely different season for the Ladies 5s.

Having lost the majority of our players from previous seasons, the team was completely rebuilt. I took over the captaincy torch from Val who for the last three seasons has led the team to promotion after promotion. What started out as a difficult one has developed into a season where, despite having one game left to go, we finished solidly in the middle of the table knowing as a team we fought hard in every single game.

From 8-0 losses to 10-1 victories, this season really has given us every scenario possible, and every type of weather too!

We’ve braved Storm Ciara (both me and the rain) and snow as well as days which left our players getting sunburnt.

We’ve also had some comedy moments. First Gaby, before leaving for New Zealand, consistently earning herself DOD for a long, long list of reasons. I cannot forget to mention Holly who doesn’t seem to own a device that tells the time or ever know what pitch she is supposed to be at... Saffy also likes to give away penalties only to prove that she can save them! I wouldn’t have our team any other way.

Our season could not have been possible without the help of Will, Sunny and the other captains. Thank you to Karen and Jess for working hard to organise all our umpires too. Also a big thank you to Ann for providing the teas and a friendly social environment for all the team after the games. To Tarek, I don’t know how you put up us with us every week!

Above all that though, thank you to every single member of the Ladies 5s and everyone who has played with us at some point this season, you have really made this hockey year what it is. I have thoroughly enjoyed this 2019/2020 season at Surbiton Hockey Club, both as a player and as captain. I am so proud of my team and how far we have come from our first game against Epsom. Onto bigger and better things, see you next year!

Played: 17 Wins: 6 (biggest win was 10-1 against THD) Draws: 2 (best draw was 4-4 against London Acis) Losses: 9 (toughest loss was 8-0 against London Acis) Goals for: 42; Goals against: 46 We finished fifth in the table overall with 20 points.

Ladies 6 – By Nina Dunn Another fantastic season for the Ladies 6s, finishing up second in the league and just three points behind Reigate, who we beat twice.

The team had many changes this season with lots of new faces joining. In spite of this, we managed to win or draw most of our games with only four losses, all of which we probably should have won if we had "played our game" as they say.

The first half of the season we got into a bit of a habit of losing the first half before finding ourselves and coming back to dominate the second half with a last minute win or draw... I'd like to take credit and say this was down to my inspiring team talks, however, I think I'll probably have to hand that to our Training week in and week out as a team saw the Colts’ fabulous support staff, most notably Spuggie who came and confidence grow as they improved. The help of Tarek, our helped on most of our games, but we were also blessed with amazing coach, meant that on game day we had a lot of coaching appearances from Liam Doidge and Robyn Collins guidance and support from the sidelines – it certainly made my too (thanks guys, we love you). job a lot easier!

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We finished on a high with a massive 6-0 win away at Crystal Palace against London Wayfarers 5s and sadly we will have to wait and see what Surrey Ladies Hockey decide to do with the leagues before we know if we've done enough to get promoted into the great heights of Surrey Div 3!

Ladies 7s – By Louise Seddon A new season and a very altered squad – about 11 players either moved up a squad or left for new ventures (South Africa for Benita, two bundles of joy for Jane!).

Despite the very different appearance of the team sheet, we actually started extremely well against Guildford in September, earning a respectable 2-2 score. Guildford have led our division for most of the season only suffering two defeats in the last few weeks to be overtaken by the current leaders Old Georgians (in our opinion the best team we faced).

When the team were firing, we played some wonderful hockey, keeping the ball moving and scoring some excellent goals (the 7s had the third highest goal tally in the division) but early in the season, we were exposed in defence and conceded some soft goals early in the game so we were always having to play catch up. Many of our fixtures also had us in a winning position only to lose or yield to a drawn result - incredibly frustrating.

On to the positive side – of which there are many! Our colts continue to surprise and bring joy to the team. They all have progressed beyond expectation since we first met them in September. Having been on the shy side initially, they now are more than happy to lead the warm up and contribute to half time chats – we would be lost without them! The team spirit amongst the players is beyond compare in my opinion. I had unbelievable availability throughout the season which meant that players had to go on rotation. In spite of disappointment not to be playing, these ladies would still come to the fixture to support their team mates, wonderful!

We had superb match reports written by “#allaboutme” Ali Quinn (an impossible role to fill when she departs for the North later this year – her standard is too high!). Apologies to Ali for shamelessly borrowing some of her nicknames for below!

The 7s has been a real team effort this year. First vote of thanks is for Sarah "Mobility" Bray – we were so fortunate to have her officiate our games this season both home and away. We are incredibly thankful for her time and huge commitment to the team.

Several players contested MOM throughout the season. GPS Annie for heroics in the goal, Rosina "crazy legs" for her extraordinary ability to cover ground and put fear into the opposition defence. Her selfless play was a constant, always making the perfect pass into the D for MOC with her schword or “Current Golden Stick Holder" Lisa to convert. “allaboutmimi” (aka Little Miss Sunshine!) for her work rate in midfield and directing short corners by the end – brilliant!

Struthie with her pink gloves, a revelation in defence. Gandalf, supportive, unbelievably strong and resilient in defence "thou

shalt not pass", Fanny Star Baker directing defensive tactics, Sugar Plum orchestrating the midfield with gusto, Red Baron executing aerials with aplomb and being the most chilled player on the pitch! Frankie “doyourememberme” who always followed direction and gave an especially stirring performance against Old Georgians (most of them tried to bully her off the ball physically but she stood up to them and gave as good as she got back, with interest!). Amber, returning from injury, who made some outstanding contributions to the cause. Chengai and Maisie, tireless work rate. And Lindsey, a super late addition to our defensive ranks in the New Year. Each and every player has contributed to this season – I cannot thank you enough.

PLAYED: 17 WON: 8, DRAWN 4, LOST 5 GOALS FOR 48, GOALS AGAINST 31 (+17) POINTS: 28 (For the record, I think we would have won our last match but our position in the table would not have altered... fifth). If we can convert some of those drawn results into wins, who knows what might happen next season!

Ladies 8s – By Dawn Wildenberg The Super 8s started the season, as every other since they formed, with a transformation. 11 of the previous year’s squad departed to a combination of university, higher SHC teams, gap year travels, injury, the Sirens and new motherhood! They were initially replaced by six players either new to the club, promoted from last year’s L9s or new colts getting their first taste of ladies hockey. Those of you with even basic maths knowledge will work out the reason we struggled during September and October with a small squad and having to scrounge players from the teams around us.

Our performances were not bad, however, and our losses were only ever by one goal. A special mention to Niamh from L7 who agreed to play for us in a friendly away at Guildford.

She was hit on the hand within two minutes of the start which meant we had no subs. So when it was my turn to umpire the second half and we would have been short of players Niamh put her (good) hand up and volunteered for her first taste of umpiring. She was fantastic at it.

Our first win came on 2nd November: 3-1 at home to Kenley 2s. The joy was short-lived however as we then experienced a truly awful game the following week. Away at Woking, supposedly at 16:30: torrential rain from warm up to well beyond the match end; poor floodlights at one end of the pitch; the game didn’t actually start until 17:15, one umpire was completely blind and had no idea of the rules anyway and two injuries during the match left us down to the bare bones of a team. We lost 1-4 against a side who were really no better than us… definitely one to forget.

At the end of November our squad was boosted by some extra players, most returners from university and two I even played with before they left for their studies! We then had a run of three victories out of four matches up to the Christmas break and were playing some nice hockey. The exception was

15

a narrow 1-2 defeat against London Eds who ended second in the league and will probably be promoted. We did avenge this loss as early as the following day with a victory against the same team in the Surrey Cup. There was a comedy moment in our match away at Sunbury when one of their umpires saved on the line with his foot an absolutely certain goal of ours... it didn’t change the outcome as we won anyway but our chins were glued to our chests in disbelief for a good ten minutes afterwards!

At the start of the new year we faced our own L9s who gave us all a lesson in hockey skills, passing and the advantages of being fit and 14 years old! For our next fixture we had a full 15 travel to Reigate. We all arrived before the opposition to find about 1/6 of the pitch frozen and an opposition captain who seemed to think it wasn’t her responsibility to carry out a pitch inspection! Match cancelled… grrrr. We did get match teas out of them though!

Finally having a more settled team provided our best run of five victories in five matches… including a win in full Storm Dennis as revenge for the disorganisation of the Reigate cancellation. The best of these was against the aforementioned Woking side at home on the sand in early February. We somehow found ourselves 0-2 down at half time completely undeservedly. We didn’t panic, had faith that we were doing all the right things and, cheered on by a huge crowd that had migrated over from the show pitch, reeled them back in winning 3-2.

What ended up being our last match of the season was against London Eds again, away at Honor Oak Park (Surrey league… really?!). I’m sure our parent supporters will vouch for the fact that we played our best hockey of the season. Our passing was superior, teamwork and communication off the scale, the only thing we didn’t do well was convert our chances! Eds were reduced to chasing after us and their own chances were very few. With three minutes left of the game however they managed to score, robbing us of a point that was rightfully ours but also of the reward for some brilliant hockey play.

Reflections on the season as a whole…

training and whose commitment to the L8s makes my job so much easier: Kerrie, Emma, Freya, Annabelle, Andrie, Abby.

We were in third position when the league was halted with our two remaining fixtures against the two bottom teams. A fabulous position considering at the start of the season we had with a really small squad.

The team spirit in the Super 8s is second to none and that, along with some real quality team hockey, is one of the most satisfying elements of our season.

Cobras & Mongooses - by James Hamper Cobras: League position: first in Surrey Open Hockey League Div 4 League games: 16 Goals for: 63 Goals against: 12 Most improved player: Oli Neal (colt) Golden stick: Craig Schultz (18 league goals) Player of the season: James King Honourable mentions William Tsolo, Andy Little, Harry GuyWilliams (colt) Top supporter: David Pinder Mongooses: League position: first in Surrey Open Hockey League Div 5 League games: 18 Goals for: 79 Goals against: 14 Golden stick: Chris Ralphs (not sure of the number, there were so many!)

Player of the season: James Evans Honourable mentions Fynn Tinker (colt) Big thanks to all the umpires, co-ordinators, Ann & her team, scribes who helped with match reports and especially the players. Great bunch of guys. Onwards and upwards!

Having lost our long time keeper Jenny at the end of last season we have found a new one in the fabulous Silke who is now an awesome and integral part of our team.

Our colts Ruby and Sophie have blossomed this season. Their talent is undeniable but they have taken more on the field responsibilities and their games have improved in tandem. Maya too has become more confident as the season has progressed and is learning to be more vocal on and off the pitch. Anna’s positioning improves with every game and she certainly keeps us entertained at training.

New players have integrated brilliantly and we love having them at Surbs: Taryn, May, H, Nat, Leah. The uni returners have been great to catch up with and slotted back in like they never left: Meghan, Katie, Rachael, Rosie.

And let's not forget the… should I say veterans(?!) who are the backbone of the team and come week in, week out to

England Hockey have suspended all domestic hockey activity until at least 30th June.

The club will provide updates as we receive them. For the full EH statement, please click here

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Special feature: BACK 2 HOCKEY, A FAMILY AFFAIR

21

Many of our B2H players have been inspired to pick up a stick by their own kids playing at the club. We hear their stories...

THE MURASES Maya: My daughters began playing hockey first, joining the club three years ago. I joined Back 2 Hockey about a year ago after beginning to get involved as a Sunday 'Parent Manager'. My biggest challenge is getting to face the reality that my fitness isn't the same as when I was younger. I can see that my body reacts A LOT slower than my mind actually wants it to...

B2H has definitely influenced perceptions about playing that I hadn't realised from watching. For example, running around with a mouth guard is really tiring and difficult to speak! I used always tell the girls to talk to each other more! If I had to describe Back to Hockey in 5 words or less, I'd say: Great Big Hockey Family"

Mana (GU12) and Saya (GU10): "We encouraged our dad to pick up hockey and are pleased he is now doing Back 2 Hockey. He tells us what he has learned at the B2H sessions from Tarek and Fran, and we get to try it out!"

Mana: "I have watched my dad play, and I think I am better at hockey because I can control the ball better than him."

Saya: "I have watched my dad play hockey, and I think he is better because he teaches me how to improve" Mana: "If I were a coach, I would tell my dad to try and slap the ball harder when shooting." Saya:" If I were a coach, I would tell my dad to keep the ball on the stick while dribbling."

THE SMEEDS Dirk and Jo: "Dad Dirk played hockey at school and Newcastle Uni and a couple of years at Wimbledon HC (best keep that quiet!) before finding other things to do on a Saturday from around 2001. The girls (Jasmine and Daisy now 12 and 11) started in 2014 at OCs, moving to Surbiton in January 2017. Alyssa (aged 7) started hockey in 2018/9 season.

The biggest challenge at B2H has been realising I have muscle dementia - it's the opposite of muscle memory... your body and mind think they can remember being able to do something, but have clearly forgotten and fail spectacularly! Oh and my stick seems to always be at least two inches too short!

As I result of B2H I have definitely lost any "competitive

dad" that I may or may not have been harbouring! I appreciate the children's skill levels much more.

I would describe Back to Hockey in 5 words or less by saying 'More fun than a gym...' " Jasmine (year 8), Daisy (year 6) & Alyssa (year 2): "We definitely encouraged our mum and dad to take up hockey... twice over. Our proudest moment was watching Daddy scoring the equalising goal for the Cobras in the final minutes of the game against OKs, to secure a draw and the point that won the Surrey Division 5 title.

We are definitely better at hockey than mum and dad!

If we were coaches, we'd say: 'Daddy, look up more, Daddy get fitter, Mummy, keep the ball out in front of you'

THE MOORES Joanne: "My daughter Sophia played first. My biggest challenge at B2H is that the mind can be more willing than the body. January and February are hard months with pulled muscles aplenty!

My daughter's a GK, so B2H has given me renewed respect for putting herself in the firing line. I have subsequently become a newly trained umpire and have more respect for all umpires in interpreting the Colts play matching it to the rules of hockey. I'd describe B2H as

friendly, fun, instructive, team-building, inclusive."

Sophia: "My mum started playing hockey after the 2016 Olympics. I am proud of her because in some matches she scores lots of goals. I am the occasional time-keeper and team mascot for Mum's team the Sirens. I'm better than Mum because I'm not afraid of the ball (but I do wear an AWFUL lot of GK padding). My coaching tip for my mum would be to go for more tackles and not be afraid of being hit!"

THE PINDERS Dave: "My daughters (twins, now aged 14) started when they were nine, first of all through the 'hockey in the community' sessions at Christchurch School and then at Surbiton Hockey Club. I find skills the biggest challenge - I had never played hockey until 2016 so I'm still learning how to play.

go in head first into a mass of bodies and sticks. I'd describe B2H as welcoming to all - no barriers!"

Issy (GU16): "My dad enjoyed watching me play so he was interested to try out himself. Playing hockey makes my dad happy and I’m proud he has found something to spend his time doing. I’ve watched my dad play before, B2H has made me realise that it’s a lot harder than it but we can’t compare talents because I play in goal and looks! Also it’s apparent how good many of the colts he plays outfield. [Dad note - such a modest answer, its are at Surbiton. The level of skill on show is amazing, very clear who is better and it’s not me!] If I was the coach even in junior matches. I've never played in goal but I do I would suggest that my dad should keep trying to play admire goalkeepers for their bravery and willingness to his best and work as part of the team."

THE BARRITTS Hannah: “I played a long time ago at school, but when my son played at Surbiton HC; I started a few weeks after he did after reading a flyer in the Colts newsletter.

the children are being asked to do in training and why, having been in training myself. It's interesting because Oliver probably struggles with similar things to me.

The challenge is probably that I could be fitter; running around for nearly an hour is tiring and by the end I feel like I lack energy to really run after the ball! When it's cold and wet sometimes it's hard to get out of the house but I'm always glad I did, you quickly warm up!

I'd describe Back to Hockey as: Fun, friendly, fitness, personal improvement”

B2H has helped me find it easier to understand what

Oliver: "I am proud that mummy plays hockey too. I haven’t watched her play yet, but hopefully I can soon!

If I was a coach, the tip I would give my mum to help her improve is ‘run faster!’”

THE MITCHELLS Silke: "Lena played hockey first for about a year before I discovered the Back2Hockey group. The biggest challenge is simple: controlling a small hard ball with a long hard stick! Back 2 Hockey means that I now appreciate much more the skill that is involved in trapping and passing the ball accurately.

If I had to describe Back 2 Hockey in five words or less I'd say: Social yet focused, fun adults" Lena (GU14): Mum found the B2H group herself, I was just pleased she found something that she enjoyed (that it was the same hobby as mine was just an added bonus).

I have been to many of her games and was even lucky enough to play both with and against her recently; I would have to say that I am a better field player but she is probably better in goal than me!

My coaching tip to my mum would be: 'move to where the ball goes, following it and “Be more like Grace!” (mum wrote that bit!)'

FROM THE ARCHIVES A couple of photos from the archives... this time we feature two brilliant Surbiton HC images from the 1980s.

This fantastic photo is from Jo Firth's collection. It shows the Surbiton Ladies touring team who went to the Bloemendaal Tournament in 1986. Who do you recognise?

Thanks to Roger Hitch for this brilliant photo of the Surbiton Boys U16 team from around 1980, featuring a number of familiar faces. Back row left to right, Ian Williams, Richard Davenport, Mike Cuckow, Graeme Foreman, Andrew Williams, Jon Molloy. Front row, David Curry, Willie Duckworth, David Francis, Ben Parsons, Andy Harding, Roly Franks, Chris Beaney

25

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VIRTUAL END OF SEASON PARTY We couldn't party in the same room... but we could celebrate on Zoom! Here are screenshots from various virtual parties held by teams from throughout the club

27

Sports scholarships available Epsom College is proud to support Surbiton Hockey Club.

We also are proud to support young sporting talent, and offer Sports Scholarships for pupils joining us in Year 7, Year 9 and the Sixth Form.

Visit our website or come to an Open Morning to discover more.

OPEN MORNING 21 MARCH 2020

WWW.EPSOMCOLLEGE.ORG.UK

Virtual EOS 2020 Thanks to everyone who got involved in this year's virtual EOS party. It was great to see club members of all ages get together to celebrate an amazing season for so many teams from throughout the club.

Thanks also to the team captains for helping to organise their teams for the event and to club chef Hugh for putting together a fantastic EOS dinner recipe for people to try at home.

We look forward to having a 'real' party once the situation changes... cheers!

wcp_hockey www.wovencarbonproducts.com

31

MEET THE TEAM: Cobras With thanks to James Hamper and the Cobrass

Best result or team performance of the 2019/20 season and why: After losing to Reigate in the season opener, the team bounced back and dominated the second leg to win 5-0. Definitely the most complete performance of the season.

Biggest disappointment of the 2019/20 season: Losing Alfie Riley to a broken arm and losing the first game of the season to Reigate.

Stand out performers of the 2019/20 season: Six goals in a game for Craig Schultz; MVP this year was shared by William Tsolo (first half season) and James King (second half).

COACH: The long-suffering Arjan Drayton-Chana (if anyone arrives at Monday night practice, most are still struggling to walk that close to Saturday!)

CAPTAIN: James Hamper TEAM MATES MOST LIKELY TO...

Score a worldie (screamer into the top corner from distance): Ollie N or Ben W (Colts have the modern sticks!)

Most memorable away trip of the 2019/20 season and why: A 1-0 win against a loaded Guildford side in front of an on-edge partisan crowd. Gutsy team performance to find a win against all the odds.

Who are the Cobras’ biggest supporters?

The Colts’ dads who make it out to support us come rain or shine, the Mongooses and Martin Kotze (the only player who would rather be a spectator!).

Any interesting facts about the Cobras?

The Cobras used to be called Sparticans B but rebranded at the start of 2018 season and (once they Miss an open goal: Craig Schultz (Grazing Rhino) or found a suitable name) have never looked back! Some Rich O’Connor (Hibernating Bear) of the other name options included Kingfisher, Tiger… you can probably see where the inspiration was Make a match saving tackle: William Tsolo (solid as a coming from! rock at the back, until he decides to give the oppo a chance…)

The best thing about playing in the Cobras is...

The team spirit, great bunch of guys!

Finish a game with grazed knees: Alex McKee (constantly being snipered from the grassy knoll) Get a yellow card: Alex McKee (looking for the sniper). Craig Schultz also worth a shout Talk themselves out of a yellow card: Gregor Falck – poacher turned gamekeeper, he is constantly niggling with the opposition striker and living dangerously with trigger finger umpires!

Get DoD: Too many options, any of the old bucks!

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MEET THE TEAM: Ladies 5s With thanks to Ciara Aldous and the Ladies 5s COACH: Tarek Abdulla

midfield dynamo Gaby continually stood out for her effort, dedication and ongoing aggression.

CAPTAIN: Ciara Aldous TEAM MATES MOST LIKELY TO...

Score a worldie: Spuggie Miss an open goal: Jess Bonstein Make a match saving tackle: Talia Akdeniz Finish a game with grazed knees: Charlie Ambidge Get a yellow card: Gaby Orlich Talk themselves out of a yellow card: Ciara Aldous Get DoD: Molly La Frenais Best result or team performance of the 2019/20 season and why: Our 4-4 draw with London Acis. It was our best performance as a team where we surprised the runaway league leaders by being a committed and composed team with the right attitude. The four goals we scored against them were the most they had conceded in any match this season. A particular highlight of the game was definitely Spuggie’s amazing equalizer scored in the last minute of the match with a flick into the top corner of the goal.

Biggest disappointment of the 2019/20 season: Not finishing it! Or as Charlie Brown likes to say… the End of Season Party being cancelled.

Most memorable away trip of the 2019/20 season: Richmond, our final game. A game to be remembered for all the wrong reasons it seems as we should have one easily 6-0 rather than fighting a 3-2 loss. However, it did bring many laughs and memories, with Barni receiving a green card, Ciara picking a fight with the umpire and subsequently Charlie B breaking an opposition player’s nose. We’re actually really nice and well-behaved, promise!

Who is the Ladies 5s' biggest supporter?

We are very lucky to have a few dedicated fans who love brave all weathers to shout and support from the sidelines! Jacqui and Simone are simply long-term legends. Gav Cookman (along with his vuvuzela) loves to make the occasional appearance, which is always filled with enthusiasm and volume! It seems he prefers to watch us play rather than the twins! Let’s not forget Jo Firth who despite her injury in the first half of the season still found ways to come down and support us, helping out with the subs, coaching and always keeping us in high spirits! Thank you to you all.

Stand out performers of the 2019/20 season: We have a great team with a lot of brilliant and skilled players! Molly’s improvement throughout the season cannot go unmentioned, alongside the Charlie A/ Charlie B tag team in defence. Each and every game Any interesting facts about the Ladies 5s?

Ruby came out fighting for the ball with Ciara also An unprecedented three promotions in three setting a good example and leading the midfield. consecutive seasons means we’ve plateaued in a really However, despite her early departure down under, our tough Surrey Division One. We’re a fabulous mix of seniors and amazing colts/youth players. We’re claiming all credit for launching the careers of the amazing Cookmans, Klugmans, Careys, Sherwood, Townsend etc of the elite teams.

The best thing about playing in the Ladies 5s is....

The sheer passion and determination to work hard for each other and to get the best result for the whole team.

We fight hard on the pitch and laugh harder off it. It’s the perfect combination.

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END OF SEASON REVIEW 2019/20: Ladies 1s

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The L1 are crowned National Champions for a seventh consecutive season despite EHL and Playoff cancellations. Review by Beckie Middleton The Ladies 1s completed their regular season matches just before lockdown began, although they had already confirmed a top of the table finish with three games to play after taking an important six points from a tough double header weekend in late February. England Hockey have recently confirmed the L1 as league champions.

An unbeaten season was not to be, however, with the L1 falling to defeats against Clifton and East Grinstead in the final two league games. The East Grinstead game in particular was ultimately a disappointing finish to what has been another strong season – a poor performance in an emotional week where the L1 players and staff had learnt that the Euro Hockey League competition had been postponed, effectively erasing the squad’s main target for 2019/20. The Playoff Finals was called off soon after, leaving the squad – as with most hockey players across the club – a sense of unfinished business.

league, the Ladies also hosted an enjoyable Bingo Night and Auction in February, raising £4500 in the process.

Thanks to all those who attended the event and placed bids, and to Tony Haycroft for his skills as auctioneer and bingo caller!

The Ladies 1s would also like to thank their fellow players and teams from throughout the club, and the incredible clubhouse team for their support this season. We look forward to seeing you all back down at the club as soon as possible.

Despite the premature end to the season, it has been another impressive year for the L1. Slightly more availability from the international contingent than is often the case and a consistent training group has enabled the squad to develop across the season, and confidence was high for a strong showing in the European campaign.

Having played the second half of the season without injured defensive linchpin Giselle Ansley, a number of players have shown exceptional composure and consistency throughout the season, with Robyn Collins and Ella Burnley proving to be a strong partnership in central defence.

Georgie Twigg was rewarded for another excellent year with the team’s Player of the Season Award, while Colt Emily Guckian was voted Most Improved after some mature and creative Andy Smith performances beyond her years. Surbiton’s top scorer was striker Erica Sanders, who finished equal second in the Premier League’s top scorer table with 11 goals.

Away from the

2019/20 Post-Christmas Results: Surbiton 3 – 1 Loughborough Students Buckingham 2 – 5 Surbiton Surbiton 2 – 1 Holcombe Hampstead & Westminster 2 – 3 Surbiton Surbiton 0 – 1 Clifton East Grinstead 6 – 1 Surbiton Season Summary: Games – 18 Wins – 15 Draws – 2 Losses – 1 Goals for – 45 Goal against – 26 Top Goalscorers: Erica Sanders - 11 (7 FG, 3 PC, 1 PS) Hannah Martin - 7 (3 FG, 4 PC) Georgie Twigg - 4 (1 FG, 2 PC, 1 PS) Giselle Ansley - 4 (2 PC, 2 PS)

END OF SEASON REVIEW 2019/20: Men's 1s

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The M1 made it a domestic double after a fantastic season. Review by Matt Jones

The restart to the outdoor league was plagued yet again by bad weather and a lack of preparation showed, with the squad suffering two frustrating draws on the bounce.

Winning ways returned and continued until the final league match of the season at home to Wimbledon. A win or a draw would see the team achieve an undefeated season but on the virtual eve of coronavirus taking a grip on the country, it wasn’t to be.

With the EHL on indefinite hold, the opportunity to face off against Bloemendaal in the KO8 was gone, at least for the time being.

SHC M1 set its targets high for the 2019/2020 season, particularly after the disappointment of what could have been in 2018/2019. Despite qualifying for the Euro Hockey League for a third straight season, losing in the both the indoor and playoff finals last season were bitter pills to swallow.

Rob Farrington and Ore Ogunlana made welcome returns home from a season away in Germany and Durham University respectively. They were joined by Jonty Griffiths from Wimbledon, young Dutchman Theun de Leeuw from Den Bosch and Jack Tranter from Beeston. Despite a largely unchanged squad, it was very encouraging to see so much homegrown young talent making appearances throughout another record-breaking season for the ‘SEALS’.

Travelling to Barcelona in October for the EHL, having started the season undefeated, Surbiton knew that a win against Real Club de Polo would set up a fantastic opportunity to qualify for the EHL KO8. Despite two horrendous season-ending knees injuries to David Beckett and Brendan Creed within 10 minutes of each other, Surbiton regrouped and swept Polo aside followed by Dinamo Kazan the following day.

Buoyed by two outstanding performances, it set a tone for the remainder of 2019 with the squad winning every match in the run-up to the indoor season.

William Marshall returned to the indoor squad and with Alan Forsyth scoring at will, Surbiton topped the Premier Division before going on to lift the indoor title at the Copperbox for the second time with Ore Ogunlana starring in goal in his first season back with the club.

But how would EH decide to end the season was what was on everyone’s minds. Finally on 28th April 2020, Surbiton HC M1 were crowned National Champions 2019/2020 for the third time in four seasons, to go with the two national indoor titles.

Five indoor and outdoor titles in four seasons and qualifying as the number one seeds for both the Euro Hockey League and Euro Indoor Trophy sets Surbiton HC up nicely for an exciting 2020/2021.

Season summary: The domestic league stats speak for themselves...

47 points, 15 wins, top of the table all season.

Top goalscorer - Luke Taylor, 28 Most field goals - Alan Forsyth, 19 Most goals scored - 93 Fewest goals conceded - 25 EH Premier League - Won 15 Drew 2 Lost 1 Euro Hockey League - Won 2 Drew 0 Lost 0 EH Super 6s Indoor - Won 9 Drew 0 Lost 1 Overall - Won 26 Drew 2 Lost 2 Andy Mair

NO NUMBER NINE Now that the hockey season is over, is anyone else wondering what we’re going to do in the summer break? If you’re looking for a bit of light reading about your favourite sport during lockdown then how about a good book, with a bit of action, a bit of love, and lots of hockey in it!

No Number Nine is a novel by St Albans HC player and author F.J. Campbell and there’s a special discount for Surbiton HC members* What do you do when your amazing, beautiful, beloved sister dies? Hide in your room for two years. Sleep with a very, very wrong man. Leave home and start a new life, lying to everyone you meet including your kind employer, your curious friends and the man you love?

Pip Mitchell’s an expert at making seriously bad decisions. But when her past, present and future collide at the Sydney Olympic Games, she’s going to have to decide whose side she’s on – or she’ll lose everyone she loves.

"Calling all #hockeyfamily – this book needs to go straight to the top of your summer reading list. Drama, love, laughter, lots of hockey players & hockey club antics we can all relate to."

- Helen Richardson-Walsh "A brilliant book. I have given it a 5 star rating. If you want to reminisce about life in your twenties this book has it all. If you have ever played hockey or been to spectate at an Olympic Games then this book is definitely one to read.”

- Goodreads review www.fjcampbell.net *Surbiton HC members will receive a £2 discount on the book if they order it during the month of May. Go to Etsy.com and use the code SHCMAY20 or click on this link to buy with the code

39

END OF SEASON REVIEW 2019/20: Ladies 2s The Ladies 2s had a fantastic debut season of National League hockey, winning the IWHL Conference West title and securing promotion. Review by Rob Farrington After a number of successful years in the South Premier League, England Hockey’s restructuring of the leagues meant Surbiton L2s found themselves in the new National West Conference. This presented us with an exciting new challenge, albeit with quite a few trips to the West country! As always we set ourselves high standards aiming to be the best team in the league, but also to be the most improved team.

Despite hoping to win, it was largely about trying to improve individual and team performances.

We got off to an excellent start winning six of the first seven matches, scoring 32 and conceding just six. Only a frustrating day up in Birmingham where it seemed impossible to score resulted in a 1-0 loss knocking us back (despite having a penalty corner awarded on the full time whistle and then after the full-time whistle due to marvellous umpiring…)

The next set of games were a little bit more of a battle, a performance lacking some energy against Oxford Hawks and some football skills from the Hawks meant we had our second loss of the season. However we took revenge against Uni of Brum, despite their late equaliser in the 65th minute, we managed to find a way to win. Then before the Christmas break we produced our best performance yet of the season against a very strong Uni of Oxford side to win 3-1.

Westminster L1s. We produced an excellent team performance and something we can aspire to play like consistently, the game was 1-1 until the last period where H&W managed to score two quick goals to win the game.

Across the season 26 players contributed to the squad, with an average age of 17.7 years. It was a massive effort from all and there has been some really pleasing progress from both individuals and teams.

Huge thanks to our team managers Martha & Jill, they have been exceptional and made it incredibly easy for players and coaches. Also for keeping various sweet companies in business - I think we averaged about six packs per game!

After Christmas we continued winning ways against Cheltenham, but a tough game away at Exe resulted in a 1-1 draw despite bombarding their goal and having more shots that we have ever had in a game. Despite plenty of shooting practice in training, the following week we had a Also a big thanks to all the parents for their taxi service GK situation with no registered GK and again lost to and continued support on the side. The girls couldn’t do it Oxford Hawks despite best efforts from Beckie Middleton without you. who had offered to go in goal (thank you!).

Season summary: Despite a two game winless streak, we quickly turned things around to win the next three games and with that Played 16, Won 12, Drew 1, Lost 3. Scored 58 (44FG, the league was secured, despite not being able to play the 12PC, 2 PS). Conceded 22 remaining two games due to covid-19. On 28th April England Hockey confirmed we are league champions and Top goalscorer: Hannah Denison (18), although we had will move up into National League South, one league 10 different goalscorers below our L1s. A fantastic achievement.

Attack: 183 shots, 75 penalty corners. Expected goals: 73 There was also a notable cup run, beating Southgate and Defence: 47 shots, 27 penalty corners. Expected goals: 22 then Broxbourne. We then faced Hampstead & Average result: 3.63 vs 1.38

OPEN MORNINGS Prep and Senior School Wednesday 5 February and Wednesday 6 May 2020, 9.30am “Unpressured (for the most part) and friendly, but this is no soft option ...the girls both work hard and play hard, with results to match.”

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A POSTCARD FROM PERTH We hear from the L1s Australian import (2015/16 and 2016/17 seasons) Naomi Evans AKA Dobby my ple in the world (besides G’day to my favourite peo d ive arr I ce sin r four years Aussies!). It’s been just ove zen ining session on a fro to my first Surbiton tra rbie ce on my seasons at Su pitch… I constantly reminis . the best times in my life and how they have been

ching sorry) I’ve been busy cat Since life in Surrey (not er d still playing hockey. Aft up on some vitamin D an the de my debut for nine years of trying, I ma nd yed a stint in New Zeala Hockeyroos in Japan, pla m d play with Surbiton tea and got to be reunited an in ill Ch d an teams Strikers mate Bex for Canberra gue and Hockey One the Australia Hockey Lea competitions.

ch up with some other I’ve also been lucky to cat nwealth Games in Gold Surbie girls at the Commo get Perth, and I’m hoping to Coast and Pro League in the ate ebr r this year to cel over for some UK summe (Jess and Lloydy). wedding of my masters

Take care and stay safe, Evo / Dobby xx :)

ey Club Surbiton Hock Sugden Road n Thames Ditto KT7 0AE

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UMPIRING FEATURE: Andy Parker Interview

43

We spoke to Andy Parker, one of our biggest umpire success stories...

My umpiring career I used to play, but I was average at best. Hockey was mainly the winter sport that kept me fit for the cricket season. When I joined Surbiton back in 2005, I played for the Mighty 7s for a few years, which was great fun.

Umpiring came about a little by accident. I injured my neck one summer and was sidelined for the early part of the season and that’s when I gave it a go (with the irony not being lost on those who knew me as a player!). I found that I enjoyed it and, with my body starting to show the signs of wear and tear, I realised that I was more likely to stay involved in the game with a whistle in my hand. I did play on a little, but I knew it was time to put the stick away and focus on umpiring.

ten days across three venues. It was my first taste of proper FIH level hockey and I thoroughly enjoyed it. As I am writing this, sadly the 2020 tournament has been put back to 2021, but it will be worth the wait. Apart from the hockey itself, meeting and officiating with umpires from all around the world was a great experience and I learnt so much.

My most recent highlight was umpiring the Men’s Over 45 European Cup final between England and Scotland in Rotterdam. It was a tough game for me, but doing a game in front of a big crowd and having that pressure was great fun.

Rewards, challenges and characteristics of good umpires

I am now a Level 2 umpire (predominantly officiating games on the ladies’ side) and a Level 1 Umpire Coach. The biggest challenge for an umpire is getting it right for I am hoping to move up to national level this year and I the players. Sounds obvious maybe, but as you move would like to think I can get to NPUA B panel at least. up the levels, the game gets faster and the skills better and you have to be switched on to that. I spend time Over the last couple of years one of the best things after games reviewing what I thought I had maybe that I have been able to do is be involved with Masters missed, or could do better and also what was good. hockey. In 2018 I went to Terrassa in Spain for the Every game brings something new and unlike the Masters World Cup and last year I was in Rotterdam players who can practise skills and routines away from a for the European Cup. The World Cup was amazing. match, for most umpires their practice is the real thing.

450 games of hockey were played by 3500 players in The biggest reward for me by far has been able to umpire levels of hockey that I was never capable of as a player. Being part of Surbiton has allowed me to get more access to that than most umpires thanks to Brett Garrard and others. You have a grandstand seat at the game and when that game has international level players that’s pretty cool.

Andy (umpire on right) lines up for South Africa vs Spain at the Master World Cup

For me the most important quality in an umpire is a sense of humour and empathy. Ok, so that’s two, but they go hand in hand for me. If you have those, you can generally remain calm and also get the players on your side.

Being able to manage the intensity level of players can make a massive difference to a game. It can also mean if you do make a mistake it is a lot

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The line ups before the Men's O45 European Cup Final in Rotterdam

easier to manage the outcome. On that note, holding your hand up if you have got something wrong is important, again it helps with the player relationship.

help you out. There’s a lot in the rules, so just focus on the important aspects of what is actually an offence and what you should do about it.

The best piece of umpiring advice I’ve ever received was from Swampy Marsh: "Slow down!". I am quite a bouncy person and I have a lot of energy, which used to spill over to the pitch – this didn’t help me, or the players for that matter. He was the first person to get me to look at myself on video and it was an eye opener. I have worked really hard over the last two or three years to manage that and not be as active on the pitch. That has been a big part of my improvement and progression.

After that, get some game time. We are lucky as a club to have a wide range of teams, so why not start at the junior level? Once you do start, ask for advice and feedback. I have found a lot of people are willing to help you, including me! I am always happy to come to the club to watch a game and give you some pointers.

Getting started as an umpire I would absolutely encourage others to give umpiring a go! Two reasons. First as a player, it can really help your game. Having that different perspective of the play as well as maybe learning the rules a bit better will be beneficial to you and your team. It might also bring a bit of a change of attitude towards whoever does have the whistle in their hand when yours has a stick in it.

Second, it is fun and it can prolong your time in and around the game when your playing days may be coming to an end. I would also say that it is an opportunity to give something to the club. You don’t get a game unless there are two people with whistles there.

A bit of preparation is helpful when starting out. Firstly, I would have a read through the rules and get yourself familiar with them. Apart from the formal resources through EH, there is loads of content on the web to

Three practical tips I would give to help novice umpires become more confident would be positioning, presentation and control! These are the key to being confident and improving as an umpire. They are the skills that you can develop quickly as you gain your match experience.

Positioning: Work on being in the right place on the pitch to make the decision. If, when you blow the whistle, the players look up and see you right there, it helps you sell your call.

Presentation: Blow your whistle confidently and signal confidently. Don’t appear to be unsure of what you have decided as the players do pick up on that. Don’t worry if you may have got it wrong.

Control: This really breaks down into two things – safety of the players and respect to the umpires. The best advice on the safety aspect I give a new umpire is, if it’s getting messy, just to blow the whistle and make a decision. It stops it getting worse. As far as respect goes, it is my bugbear. Don’t be afraid to deal with players who are making comments toward you as the umpire. If you are seen to show zero tolerance players will realise this and it will make for a better game.

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FOCUS ON: CLUB DEVELOPMENT We are continually striving to make Surbiton HC better. Here's a more detailed look at how we form our strategy and the areas we are working on behind the scenes...

In 2019 Surbiton HC carried out a survey of members' views. This was an important component that informed our Five Year Development plan for 2019-2024. The results were presented at the 2019 AGM and we are pleased to be able to share a summary of the results here with an overview of how we have used our members views' and comments to continue to develop and improve your club over the last year. We intend to carry out a bi-annual club survey so that we can measure our progress - so this time next year, we will be asking club members to complete the next survey to assess how we are getting on and help us evolve our strategy to continue to take steps forward.

Our club members were also invited to take part in the annual England Hockey Player survey. As a highly responsive club, we recently received detailed information from the governing body about our own members' views. This season, we were delighted to understand that our results indicate a high level of satisfaction among SHC members, but the data we have received from England Hockey will continue to inform our work behind the scenes to consolidate what we are doing well, and to develop the areas where we can improve or offer you more..

Hockey Experience Our 2019 survey said...

Overall hockey experience

Quality of coaching

Where we are now / what we've done in the last 12 months...

Overall Hockey Experience * 23 adult teams plus Mixed and Masters sides; 37 Colts teams * M1s and L1s are National Champions again * 15 current senior international players; 14 junior internationals * Over 110 Colts on Player Pathway (County / PC) * Thriving Back to Hockey section * Twice weekly hockey sessions for Colts of all levels * Regular mini tournaments for our younger players * All teams play competitive matches most weeks

Awareness of Volunteering Opportunities Our 2019 survey said...

Quality of Coaching * Professional, high quality coaching team - including Olympians and players with international experience * Enthusiastic and knowledgable junior coaches * Coaches plan every session delivery * Strive to keep consistent coaches within training groups and teams * Off-pitch coaching tools such as video analysis, individual feedback and performance goals available

Where we are now / what we've done in the last 12 months... * Over 130 volunteers during 2019/20 season in various roles across adult and Colts section including team managers, umpires and fundraising

Want to volunteer or find out more?

Please get in touch! junioradmin@surbitonhc.com [volunteering in Colts section] clubcap@surbitonhc.com [adult section]

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Communication Our 2019 survey said...

General Communication

Communication - Team & Matches

Where we are now / what we've done in the last 12 months...

General Communications * Dedicated communications team who manage club website, social media channels and newsletters * Better & broader whole club coverage is now a key target * New club website launched September 2019 [average views 3000+ per week in season]. * 11,000+ social media followers * Weekly newsletters for senior and Colts sections * Surbiton HC digital and print magazine published 3 times a season

Communication for Team & Matches * Adult teams receive communication via captains and/or managers * Introduction of dedicated Colts Administrator * Introduction of Teamo system * Fixture calendar updated weekly and communicated via newsletter, club website and social media * Most teams publish weekly match reports

Pitch, Clubhouse, Bar & Facilities Our 2019 survey said...

Quality of playing facilities

Quality of bar facilities

Quality of communal areas

Where we are now / what we've done in the last 12 months... * Five Year Plan incorporates upgrades to pitches, facilities and clubhouse * Bar area and dining room had minor upgrade in August 2019 * New big screen TV with BT Sport * Saturday match teas continue to be popular and are available to players and spectators * Tea Hut hours and food and beverage offering extended, including new 'proper coffee' and hot chocolate machine * Selection of hot snacks available in clubhouse on weeknights

Quality of food & beverages

Our Future Plans * Continue to strive for excellence in offering a hockey programme that is available to all regardless of ability, age, gender or socio-economic status. Data from the EH survey suggests there is a huge demand for more friendlies and a summer hockey league programme at both a club and national level - we are working towards being able to do this next year * Improve the social experience of our members and non-members at SHC by fully utilising our facilities and offering more off-pitch engagement * Begin planning for pitch, clubhouse and facilities upgrade * Explore, develop and establish existing and new sponsorship and fundraising opportunities especially post Covid-19 to enable us to invest more into our club for the benefit of all our members * Continue to develop our already strong volunteer base

INTERVIEW: BRENDAN CREED ON COPING WITH INJURY

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We talk to M1 and GB star Brendan Creed about what he has learnt from his long-term knee injury and his advice to other hockey players who face a while on the sidelines.

Can you tell us a little about your injury?

When I was told, my reaction was slightly odd. I left the room, leant over one of the sinks at Bisham and felt It happened in our Euro Hockey League knockout game really sick. Then I took myself into the physio treatment against Real Club de Polo Barcelona in October 2019. room and after a few minutes, I couldn’t hold back the Near the start of the second quarter, I started to carry shock any more and just broke down for about 20 the ball out of defence and came up to an opposition minutes. A few of the athletes that were in and around player. I got quite tightly closed down so tried to turn Bisham that day (Mark Gleghorne, Sabbie Heesh and and get out of the challenge with the ball. As I tried to Maddie Hinch) were incredible and really supportive and turn out of the tackle, my knee twisted but my foot and for that I am so grateful as they helped me to digest the ankle remained in the turf. At this point I felt a pop in my news and be more rational about what was going on. knee, which I attributed to a dislocation (I have had a dislocation in a joint before) but luckily for me it popped How soon did you have surgery on your knee? straight back in this time. I knew immediately it wasn’t a good thing, I couldn’t weight bear at that time and called I had the surgery about ten days after the incident. With for a substitution. Our Surbiton physio Sam was fantastic Tokyo 2020 being roughly nine months away, the physio and calmed me down, and was reassuring and very and doctors wanted to make sure the surgery was done professional from the outset so I would like to thank him in time so that, pending rehab and recovery all going massively for this. well, I would still have a shot at the Olympics. To prepare for the operation, I had to build as much muscle I knew it was going to be a few weeks recovery at least, bulk as possible in my right leg before the surgery so that but the GB physio and doctors all thought my knee was when trying to build the muscle back up post surgery, it actually structurally pretty good so I didn’t realise it was would be a quicker and smoother process. going to be so long until I got the MRI scan results back.

The positive in this injury scenario was that I was What rehab have you worked through so far? incredibly lucky; when a normal dislocation or knee injury happens, there is usually more internal damage such as The first stage of recovery was mentally coming to terms damage to a second cruciate ligament or meniscus. I was with what has happened, letting the joint heal and start pretty lucky in that I had torn the top of my calf quite to move the joints. I was lucky enough to be living close badly (this took a lot of the strain) and ruptured my to Bisham Abbey at the time with fellow GB player and Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL). long time friend Phil Roper and his wife Nicole. It was incredible of them to offer to put me up with them. Nicole is a full time NHS physio so for the initial stages of movement, she was very much in charge!

Again, I was incredibly lucky to have such support around me. She was manipulating the knee joint and moving it around to help free the joint up, encourage flushing (moving swelling and unwanted liquid away from the joint) and increase range of motion in the knee itself. This was a really tough time as you have very little confidence the first time you start to create movement or actions in the part of your body that has had surgery. My knee was so stiff and refused to move the first time we tried to move it and I was so unconfident in the joint, I just refused to EHL move it. Towards the end of this stage, I

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I was able to start moving the knee much more freely.

The main problem with recovering from an ACL isn’t in fact the knee joint but more the hamstring graft (there are two grafts you can have, Patella tendon or hamstring) and how to recover the hamstring. This process took about 6-8 weeks.

The second stage was gym. A LOT of gym. I am (or was) quite a weedy shape without much muscle in my upper body so the strength and conditioning coach at GB saw this as an opportunity to put some timber on my top half. There has been a lot of functional movement on my lower limbs to help build up strength and then a lot of lifting heavy weights and movements on my upper limbs to help increase mass. There needs to be enough muscle and strength around the knee to protect it when it comes to increasing impact on it and the hamstring needs to be strong enough to withstand running, so there were a lot of hamstring exercises, quad exercises and calf exercises to help increase muscle mass around the knee joint. This process took roughly two to three months. It is a slow process, a lot of the same exercises and you just have to keep pushing through it and keep building up the strength so you can get closer to being able to run.

so thankfully the hamstring is still in one piece!

What have been the most challenging aspects of being out for so long?

The most challenging part of the rehabilitation process is loneliness. For me, there are two main aspects to this.

Firstly, you naturally spend a lot of time on your own as it’s very individual training. This is quite difficult for people to understand if they haven’t been through the same process. One of the reasons I play hockey is because I love team sports. I love the interaction, the entertainment, meeting new people, playing alongside my mates and so on… the list is endless! And I have now spent six months pretty much training on my own the whole time.

Secondly, it can be hard to motivate yourself when training individually. Sometimes you are really up for training, pushing your body to the limits and sometimes, you just aren’t. I wanted days or even weeks off at times, but I knew if I did this, my end goal would slowly slip away. As a result of this you adapt and can become more closed off because at the end of the day, you aren’t doing rehab because you love rehab. You are completing rehab so you can get back to what you love, playing hockey and this is one of the steps you must take in order to get to where you want to.

What have you learnt through the experience of having a long term injury?

Patience: Sometimes you can push yourself, other times you need to let your body recover. It is hard getting the balance right, but sometimes less is more in the case of injuries. You cannot rush big injuries, you have to do everything in your own time.

Acceptance: If you have a big injury you need to give yourself a bit of time just to let your mind settle and understand what has gone on. It took me about three weeks to get my head around parts of my injury, whereas other parts it has taken six months!

Finding the balance: I have definitely found that I have been able to see friends that I haven’t seen for a long The third stage (which I am on at the moment) is time due to having weekends free. I have eaten relatively building up the running and change of direction. This cleanly for the majority but I have still treated myself to a involves building up the hamstring strength again so that few days off. I am human - there are times where I need my running gait is normal and not hampered by a weak to switch off, go see a few friends at the pub, go out for hamstring. This, again, takes a lot of time to build up and dinner, go to the cinema… do normal things. Sometimes so you have to be patient and restrained in how much you get caught up in the bubble of being a full time you try to push through. Twice during the process I have athlete and not allowing yourself the freedoms that felt like my hamstring has snapped. Luckily, both times, others have. At the same time, you have to find a this was the hamstring pulling away from scar tissue and balance with this, allowing yourself to have a day off

about playing again. Keep in contact with your hockey mates, help coach or manage if you want to help the team out – but only you know whether you need space away from hockey or not.

Your diet will be the thing that will keep you healthy and fit for when you come back to playing or exercising. Eat relatively well and this will help you get back faster. Fill yourself up on junk food all the time and your recovery will be slower. Eating clean gives you the best opportunity to come back fit and healthy and get back to playing! means that you may work hard for five days and push your body so then it needs a day off. It is difficult but once you get into a rhythm and routine, it becomes a lot easier.

What advice would you give to anyone who is injured?

Be patient. You play hockey because you love it – it’s a form of exercise, you spend time with your mates, you love being a part of a team, you enjoy a pint after the game with friends… there are a plethora of reasons that you may play the game. You can still do a lot of those things if you have an injury but whether it is long term or short term, be patient with it.

You can’t rush your body to heal, so it’s a great opportunity to learn how your body recovers. If it needs time, give it time. If it needs a lot of stretching, give yourself time to stretch before activity.

Give yourself time away but don’t lose sight of why you play. Sometimes you may need time away, especially if you’re younger. Give yourself a week or two away from hockey if you feel overloaded by it. Take time away, let yourself breathe, spend time with friends who you may not see as much otherwise and then come back, refreshed and excited

A big thank you to Brendan for sharing his experiences and best wishes from all at the club for the rest of your rehab and return to a hockey pitch very soon!

All images in this article are from Brendan's social media - follow him on instagram @brendancreed18

MEET THE COACHES: Ceci Rodrigues

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Name: Maria Cecilia Rodriguez Turano Nickname: Ceci or Cece Age: 31 Where you’re from: Argentina Coach at SHC since: September 2016 Do you play hockey? Yes. I play with the amazing Ladies 4s. Great team to play with, I really enjoy playing with friends.

What coaching roles do you have at the club? I am head coach of the U12 Girls with Tarek and help Fran coach the U16 Development squad.

What do you think is the best or most unique thing about the Colts programme at SHC? The coaching system itself is unique. I come from coaching not only in Argentina but also Spain and Belgium and at Surbiton it is totally different. In the beginning I found it weird to have 40 girls (sometimes even more) all training together and then selecting teams for the weekend, but always training as one big group. Now I think it is great! It pushes all players to give 100% every session and to learn from each other. Because they all train together rotation throughout the teams is easier and it gives the girls the opportunity to play with different teammates and at different levels, creates competitiveness and that pushes our standard higher because our players work harder every week to be at the top.

What do you enjoy most about coaching?

There are two main things I really enjoy. Firstly, the happiness and positive energy we get at every session. A clear example is the Friday night sessions. Starting at 7.30pm, tired from a long week at work and knowing you won't finish until 9.30pm, and suddenly you see all their smiley faces eager to learn and to enjoy it. That is priceless and it gives you all the energy you need. Secondly, being able to see the girls improve through the season. I usually coach U12 and it is so nice to see how they improve from individual skills all chasing the ball to team tactics, transferring the ball, finding space and reading the game. It is like we have a totally different team by the end of the season as our girls grow in both skills and confidence.

What's the best piece of advice a coach has ever given you?

I can't recall specific advice from a coach but I was six years old when I started playing at my club back home – San Isidro Club (SIC) – and I will always carry the sport values that the club taught with me. Knowing that when you miss a training session or try to run one less lap you weren't just cheating yourself, but you were letting your team down. The importance of being there ten minutes before the meet time so that we were all together before we actually start the session, and for matches the importance of arriving as a team, because that creates an impact on opponents. Hockey is a team game and what you do impacts not just on your own performance but on your team too. Commitment and hard work are the only secrets to success, and the harder a team works together, the more you trust your teammates and the better you will perform. I remember the older members of SIC wasn't just training elite players but also creating athletes that know the meaning of respect at all times – for teammates, the opposition and the umpire because without them there is no game to play. Athletes that know the value of effort, that you can't take anything for granted and whatever you want in life you need to work hard and make sacrifices. It might happen or it might not, but if you never try it will definitely never happen.

What's your most memorable moment as a Surbiton coach?

There are lots of memorable moments like all our National Finals and the tour to Belgium last season. Although the end of this season was abrupt and not the one we all wanted, it was a great year. Every season Tarek and I set challenges and goals for our U12 girls. This season we wanted not just for the girls to learn specific skills and gameplay but also (don't judge our competitiveness!) to try and win all the Surrey U12 7-aside competitions, playing as many players as we could. We were able to get the maximum teams allowed to play in it - eight teams in the Surrey Plate, two in the Surrey B Cup and one in the Surrey A Cup. Performance and Development players were involved and the results were amazing! We came back with five medals. The three competitions were on the same day and we were able to achieve these results because parents stepped forward and helped us. As a team, on and off the pitch, the whole club together – players, parents and coaches – we all achieved our team goal.

It's not just a memorable moment because we won, it is because it reflects the level of all our U12 girls and how committed we are as a club to working together and helping each other.

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MEET THE COACHES: Fred Mannering Name: Fred Mannering Nickname: Freddie Age: 23 From: Kingston-Upon-Thames Coach at SHC since: 2015 Do you play hockey? Yes, captain of the SHC Mens 3A’s What coaching roles do you have at the club?

I’m a coach predominantly in the Colts section across all age groups from U8s, all the way up to U16s, both boys and girls. I also coach the Men’s 4s, 5s & 6s as well as helping coach the Ladies 2s.

What do you think is the best or most unique thing about the Colts programme at SHC? The most unique thing is definitely the sheer number of players that come down to play hockey each week. Having coached in other sporting programmes, it’s so brilliant to have so many different characters come down and bring a unique experience for us coaches, as well as the other players.

What do you enjoy most about coaching?

Definitely seeing the players’ hard work pay off. When you see them progress as a player with a massive smile on their face that’s the most rewarding aspect of coaching.

What's the best piece of advice a coach has ever given you?

Always give it everything, but never ever go past the point where you’re not enjoying it. That’s where you start to lose the love of the game.

What's your most memorable moment as a Surbiton coach?

Probably coaching the U10 girls in my first season with them as they won their Regional Finals back in 2017.

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COLTS LOCKDOWN ACTIVITY The pitch may be out of bounds, but our Colts coaching and admin team have been busy behind the scenes to provide hockey from afar and plan for a bright future...

ONLINE SKILLS VIDEOS We might not be able to coach you all directly on the pitch at the moment, but we hope our Colts are enjoying using over 20 skills videos we've sent out on Hudl over the last few weeks. Featuring some brilliant demos from GB internationals and first team stars, plus detailed coaching points and focus areas, there have been plenty of passing, receiving and dribbling skills for Colts to try out at home. We are also launching Zoom coaching in the next few weeks.

COACHING CHALLENGES

Creed, Hannah Martin, Emily Defroand, Will Fulker and Frankie Bryant. We've had 250 viewers per week so far! Lots of interesting questions have come in and the videos have been full of great discussion, interesting insight and lots of laughter!

Our social media team has been working hard to create and post skills challenges, fun and games on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook throughout lockdown.

We've had some brilliant videos sent in from our junior COLTS FEEDBACK players having a go at the challenges and making up their own skills in the garden or living room.

Many of our Under 14 and Under 16 players have made use of the feedback request system we put in INSTAGRAM LIVE Q&A place to help provide details around areas of strength and areas of development from training and gameplay Most Thursdays during lockdown, we've run a 30-60 during the 2019/20 season. For those Colts who have minute 'insta live' Q&A session. We've welcomed asked for feedback, see how you can use the lockdown international stars and brilliant Colts coaches, including time to focus on your development areas, but don't Zach Wallace, Tom Sorsby, Giselle Ansley, Brendan forget to come back and review your individual feedback when we can get back out on the pitch!

PLANNING FOR THE FUTURE While one of the biggest challenges the pandemic has brought with it is uncertainty, a lot of work has been going on behind the scenes to plan for all eventualities and make sure that we are ready to provide every Colt with a fantastic playing and training experience as soon as it is safe to play hockey again.

We are hugely grateful to every player and family who has supported the club and coaches through this challenging time, despite the disappointment of no hockey. The Colts coaching team are missing you all and can't wait to get back out there with you all as soon as it's safe to do so!

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SUPPORT SHC & SAVE MONEY AT THE SAME TIME!

Do You Shop Online? Please Read This!

We’re now registered with easyfundraising, which means you can help us for FREE whenever you shop online.

Over 4,000 shops and sites (including big retailers like Amazon, John Lewis & Partners, Argos, ASOS, M&S, Just Eat, Tesco & Sainsbury's) will donate to us when you use easyfundraising to shop with them – at no extra cost to yourself! All you need to do is sign up and remember to use easyfundraising whenever you shop online.

It’s easy and completely FREE! These donations really mount up and it only takes a moment to sign up and support us

SHC is Going Greener... and you could save on your energy bills too!

In an effort to go greener and save money on our £25k annual electricity bill, SHC have recently moved electricity supplier to Bulb Energy. Bulb is the UK’s largest green supplier providing 100% renewable electricity from solar, wind and hydro. Bulb has one tariff, it's one of the lowest on the market (renewable or not), and they don’t charge exit fees - that’s how confident they are in their offering.

We have now also been approved as a Bulb affiliate, so for every member signing up to Bulb through our link below, the club will receive £40.

For every 100 of our members who switch, we will receive £4,000 which we will then use to fund additional efficiency initiatives such as replacing LED lights in the clubhouse, energy and water saving devices, and in time LED flood lights.

The more money we raise and save from being more efficient, the less money we have to raise directly from members!

So if you want to help the planet, help your pocket and help your hockey club, please use this link to switch to Bulb. https://bulb.sjv.io/qKO7j

CORONAVIRUS, THE NHS & FUNDRAISING

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Lots of our members have been putting some amazing fundraising efforts together during lockdown. Check out what some of them have been up to... source the bike, Calvin worked with the Men’s 4s and other Surbiton HC club members to raise funds for a brand new road bike and all the accessories. The bike has now been built and delivered, so she can continue to ride to work for the NHS. Well done to Calvin and everyone involved in this - a true community effort!

Alan’s NHS Raffle Our M1 and GB star Alan has raised £8491 for the NHS by raffling off some incredible hockey kit. Alan explains…

“During the Covid-19 lockdown I was having a clear out and realised I had some playing / training kit and Adidas hockey equipment that I could put to good use. I thought this was a good opportunity to help raise funds for the NHS to say thank you for all the hard work they are doing to support the country in this pandemic and decided to put on a raffle for anyone who would like the chance to win a bundle of my international playing and Reed's School 1X1 Running Challenge training kit."

An amazing effort Aldo, thank you!

The 1X1 Boys (including a number of SHC players) from partner school Reeds have taken on a big fundraising challenge by aiming to run £1500 miles in 28 days. This is the total distance that the squad has covered in the last two years to secure a series of 17 unbeaten cup matches.

At the time of publication, the Reeds boys had just completed their challenge, raising £2580 in the process. Well done boys!

KGS Girls U15 Running Challenge

Surbiton Men’s 4s Replace NHS Paramedic’s Stolen Bike When Men’s 4s captain Calvin Cox found out about a paramedic in London who’d had her bike stolen, he thought it was a great opportunity to help someone out who is working on the frontline in the fight against coronavirus.

Using his connections at cycle retailer Sigma Sports to

The Girls U15A team from partner school KGS (including some of our Colts players) have also taken on a huge challenge in attempting to run the distance from KGS to Inverness and back to raise money for the NHS. This means a collective target of 2000km.

At the time of publication, the KGS U15 have completed over 1000 kilometres and have raised £4766. Great effort girls, keep going!

As well as the amazing fundraising in support of the NHS, in late April people across the country took part in ‘2.6 Challenges’ to help raise funds and create awareness about the huge shortfall in charity fundraising caused by the coronavirus crisis.

Care workers work incredibly hard to care for our loved ones, working long hours for a modest wage and usually very little recognition. This is especially honourable during this pandemic, as care workers are literally risking their lives to care for those who need it most.

Jamma Juggles a Hockey Ball 2.6 miles for 'Cardiac Risk in the Young’

It's very common for NHS staff and care-workers to work 12 hour shifts on the front line, especially during this pandemic. I have decided to honour this by working my own 12 hour shift, doing the closest thing to hockey goalkeeping that I can given the circumstances.

Here’s what Jamma said before taking on the challenge: "I am partnering up with some of my friends to take part in various 2.6 Challenges in order to raise money for Cardiac Risk in the Young. I am going to be running 2.6 miles with my hockey stick and hockey ball. The aim is to keep the ball airborne the whole way (if I drop it I'll start again).

I'm so grateful to many of my friends who have agreed to join me in raising money by completing their own challenges so make sure you take a look at my Twitter and Instagram pages to see all their attempts!”

At the time of publication, Jamma had raised £913 for SHC"s charity partner CRY through completing the challenge on Sunday 26th April. Well done Jamma!

As such, on the 1st May, I'm going to be throwing a ball against a Crazycatch rebound net and then catching it, as many times as possible during a 12 hour period.

This is how I replicate goalkeeper training whilst at home during lockdown, so it seems the most appropriate thing to do.

I am partnering with CrazyCatch for this event, and I am hoping through the power of social media we will be able to let people at home join me on my catching marathon, joining in alongside in solidarity for our brilliant care-workers around the country.

Although I'm sure it's going to be a long and gruelling 12 hours, in reality it is nothing compared to what our NHS Staff and care givers around the country have experienced during this pandemic, so lets give back to them what we can."

At the time of publication, Harry had survived his 'shift' and has raised £3225. He managed an incredible 27,100 catches. Awesome work Harry!

Harry Gibson takes on a ‘Crazy’ 12 Hour Shift Harry explains what he’s doing to raise money for care homes and care workers...

“Sadly, my Grandma passed away a couple of weeks ago and I’d like to raise money for the care home where she spent the final years of her life. Care homes around the country have been majorly affected by the Covid-19 pandemic and I want to do what I can to make sure they can get through these tough times as safely as possible.

Thank you and well done to all of the above and everyone else who has put so much effort in to making a positive difference during lockdown!

SOCIAL MEDIA & ENTERTAINMENT DURING LOCKDOWN

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"CUPPA & A NATTER" Ladies 1s and GB player Emily Defroand has launched a twice weekly Instagram Live show called ‘Cuppa n Natter’ during lockdown.

At 5pm every Monday and Thursday, Em will catch up with a special guest live on Instagram. Each show will involve three main questions and a few twists and challenges along the way.

"LET'S STICK TOGETHER"

Em will reveal her special guest 24 hours before each show – guests so far have included GB hockey legends Alex Danson, Maddie Hinch and Gail Emms.

The boys are enjoying some humorous and informative chats together with a few special guests.

Don't miss it - make yourself a cuppa and tune in via Emily's instagram page: www.instagram.com/emilydefroand

Men's 1s star Brendan Creed has joined forces with his GB team mate Phil Roper to create 'Let's Stick Together', a podcast available via Spotify.

If you like hockey and you like a podcast, this is a great one to listen to! Available via Spotify by clicking here: *please note, contains some explicit language

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With Surbiton teams featuring at the Euro Hockey League at Easter, as well as battling for domestic titles, expect plenty of stories on your favourite team.

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Sponsoring Surbiton HC gives you the chance to get involved in a sport with a bright future. Differentiate yourself from the competition by supporting an action-packed, exciting and inspiring game with a diverse and fast-growing fan base.

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