South Berkshire Hockey Club, formed in 2016 through the merger of Wokingham HC and Bracknell HC, has recently achieved significant milestones. The club was honoured as the Hockey Club of the Year by Hockey England at an awards ceremony in Leicester. This accolade marks a major achievement in the club’s journey since its establishment.
In a recent event at Cantley Park, the club’s home ground, the England Women’s over 60s team played against a Women’s over 35 team from South Berkshire. Both the Men’s and Women’s first teams now compete in the premier division of the South Central Hockey League, showcasing their competitive prowess.
Several players from South Berkshire have been selected to represent various South Central hockey teams. Among these, one female player is part of the England over 60’s team, and a male player from the first team competes for the England School team. Earlier this year, the men’s first team also played a match against the British Army, highlighting their active participation in notable matches.
Individual accolades within the club include one player being named the Berkshire Hockey Association Player of the Year in the U17/18 age group, and another player receiving the Girls U15 Player of the Year award.
Looking to the future, the club plans to expand its team offerings with the introduction of a new Women’s 6th team and a Men’s 7th team next season. Currently, the club boasts a total of six men’s teams and various youth teams for boys and girls aged U8, U10, U14, U16, and U18. Additionally, the club accommodates a Women’s Masters team for over 35s and over 45s, as well as a Men’s veteran team.
This year, South Berkshire introduced a Walking Hockey session and initiated hockey sessions at Sport Together Berkshire. These sessions cater to adults and children with physical disabilities, as well as learning and neurodiverse conditions, demonstrating the club’s commitment to inclusivity and community engagement.
South Berkshire Hockey Club continues to grow from strength to strength, earning recognition and expanding its reach within the hockey community.