This annual eventconsisted of a mixed hockey tournament in memory of the late Joe Whittaker (a young member who was tragically killed in 2008 aged only 20, whilst serving in Afghanistan.) The depth and breadth of the club was also on show with an exhibition match involving over 30 junior players. Fun and games were provided for the spectators and the exciting final saw The Lemons, sporting yellow hockey shirts, triumph as tournament champions. The sun shone brightly all day which reflected the spirit of proceedings.
With over 200 members, Stratford Hockey Club is sponsored and supported by Wildmoor Spa and Health Club. The first teams are sponsored by Edwards Estate Agents and Listers sponsor all umpires. The junior section has over 100 members and the club has developed a junior academy to provide selected 11-16 year olds with the relevant coaching and support that will help their transition to senior hockey and also into county and regional squad; DCS Europe mentor and sponsor the Junior Academy.
Picture: Stratford Hockey Club welcome Sponsors to the Festival Fun Day
Vicki Guise, Simon Harrison, Harpreet Singh (Wildmoor Spa), Damien Bridge (Listers), Nigel Wood and Hayley Nicholls
Pre league friendlies have already started and this weekend saw the men’s 1stXI beat local rivals Warwick 2-0 and the 2ndXI drawing 1-1, whilst the Ladies 2ndteam had a comfortable 8-0 victory over Bicester, with league campaigns resuming in a fortnight.
This coming weekend sees Stratford Hockey Club taking to the river in support of the Stratford Annual Raft Race.
New players are always welcome and anyone interested in joining Stratford Hockey Club can visit www.stratfordhockey.co.cukfor information and to make contact with club personnel.