Sport In Profile UK Issue 12 | Page 71

Woking Hockey Club as any parent knows having a flexible job is a massive help – I can work at any time of the day and from anywhere. I’m a lifelong member and love hockey so my role enables me to ensure that we continue to thrive and evolve to stay current.” Atmosphere “Woking Hockey Club is in an optimistic mood. We are lucky enough to have our own clubhouse with two pitches right outside and are in a health position fin ancially. We are in the process of working towards building an extension as well as renovating the whole existing clubhouse which will include a new kitchen, larger Committee room, interactive coaching equipment, new furniture and most importantly more storage. We currently have one sand filled pitch which is only 3 years old and a much older sand filled pitch which is nicknamed ‘The Beach’! We are intending to replace the carpet on this pitch and have two quality pitches at the same time which will greatly relieve the stress when allocating pitches to fixtures as it is a tricky balance to ensure every team has enough time on our premier pitch. I believe we have one of the best hockey teas around and this is down to our long association with our Saturday Caterers, Ecchers Ltd. With up to 10 home games to have volunteers catering was a big ask, Bob and Steve have been with us for 7 years and are definitely part of the club.” Youth “Youth development is very important to the club; we have produced some great players who are within the England at age group level set up – they have moved to continue developing their game with Surbiton as we couldn’t compete with the playing standard or International players there. At Woking, we are trying to develop every player, regardless of their ability. We have over 350 juniors from 5-16yrs so that can be tricky but we have some passionate volunteers who are doing a great job. As the Junior section is so big now, we took the step to engage a Director of Coaching for Junior Hockey and although this role is still evolving we will get the balance right with our coaching levels and programme. Paul Oldridge, the Director of club sponsor Pyrford Homes took the time to tell us more about his company and the positive association that they have with Woking Hockey Club, saying, “Pyrford Homes and Properties develop and enhance properties in the local area including Schools, Dentistry’s, Churches and commercial projects as well as residential homes.” “We are committed to providing a quality end product and building a good working relationship with all of our business being generated by word of mouth. “We’ve sponsored Woking Hockey Club for several years now having first become involved via one of our school children. I get along to the games – even the freezing cold winter ones! We are not looking to gain anything out of the partnership; we are just pleased to be able to help them out. Hopefully the club can continue its success and aim for the top.” www.sportip.biz 71