THE sport of hockey has roots dating back on the Isle of Wight that may surprise — as far back as 1892 — when it was a staple of the English sporting scene.
The Isle of Wight Hockey Club, who play at Smallbrook Stadium, Ryde — the hub of the sport on the Island for some time — remains a lively, family-friendly organisation.
It has two men’s and ladies’ teams, plus a junior side, with training for young players on a Sunday, and Wednesday for adults.
With so much potential to expand the club, with sponsors already on board, the club’s chairman, Steve Holbrook — appointed last year — has exciting plans to take it onto a new level and to champion hockey on the Island.
The Isle of Wight Hockey Club aims to build on its already solid foundations by continuing to nurture their young members into hockey-loving adults.
Just as importantly, the club is keen to hold on to its stalwarts, who have been club members for many years, to continue to play, to umpire and stay involved with the club and its social activities, backed by an enthusiastic committee.
Steve said “Hockey is a fantastic sport that can be played by all ages — men, ladies and juniors.
“Hockey is a sport great for fitness and for meeting new people.
“The club is open to all, whatever their ability.”
Hockey is popular among juniors, aged eight and over, with groups of 40 or more training on a Sunday morning.
It is good for the adult teams to know there will be an injection of young blood waiting in the wings to join a successful side.
The men’s and ladies’ first teams are currently top of their leagues and the second teams are full of juniors, aged 13 and over, and developing well in their transition into adult hockey — and also doing well in their respective leagues.
The U12 girls are also having a great season.
“Hockey on the Island is in a really exciting place and I am so grateful to our fabulous sponsors in helping support the transformation,” continues Steve.
Recent sponsorship deals with Wightlink, Gurit, Rouse, Tapnell Farm, PC Consultants, DineWight and Ryde School with Upper Chine, have been vital in securing the club’s future.
The teams all look resplendent in their new kits.
“Opposition teams now definitely know when the Island has arrived to play hockey,” Steve told the County Press.
Going forward, the club has plans to add more players of all ages and abilities to it’s squads — and to support and promote hockey Islandwide.
More events, like summer hockey camps, like the successful one held last August, and other similar events, are being planned.
- To keep up to date with the Isle of Wight Hockey club, or if you are thinking of joining, visit the club’s facebook page, or email info@iowhc.co.uk
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