Club squad is hoping to raise Three cheers
BULLY for them - a team of Tyneside hockey veterans is just one win away from trophy glory, writes TONY HODGSON.
Newcastle Hockey Club’s over35s squad has made it to the final of the Investec Women’s Masters Tier Three Championships, to be held in Lee Valley Olympic Park on April 28.
It is the first time the side has reached the competition’s deciding stage, although it has previously contested the semi-finals.
Newcastle started out with a walkover before dishing the stick against Cumbrian side Kendal and Yorkshire outfit Driffield.
That set up a last-four clash with Cambridgeshire team Letchworth, the Tynesiders claiming a 1-0 victory.
Newcastle do not yet know their opponents in the final - it will be either Teddington or Yate.
Whoever they face they will go into the match in confident mood, though, according to captain Helen Hodgson.
She said: “I am delighted and so proud of the squad - it is on the verge of making history with its first appearance in the final.
“The team has great ability and has a good mix of experience - from players just over 35 to some a little bit older.
“The squad has players from all four of the club’s ladies teams and they have shown great commitment.
“Most of the squad play or have played a vital role in keeping the club going - some have been members for more than 25 years.
“Six members of the squad were members of the women’s first team who were crowned Investec Women’s Trophy winners in 2015.
“We are improving with every game and we have a few weeks to hopefully train as a squad to improve further.”
Hodgson added: “We have exceeded expectations in the competition as we only have a squad of 16 players - smaller than some of the London clubs who entered.
“However, we are confident we can do well in the final and are delighted with the support we have had from everyone at the club.
“It will be a great honour to lead the team out on to the Olympic pitch and hopefully we can bring the trophy back to the North East.”
THE over-35s are looking for sponsorship.
Anyone interested should contact Helen Hodgson on 07989 400 256 or e-mail hodgsonhelen@hotmail.com.
WHITLEY Bay and Tynemouth Hockey Club is seeking new members of all ages and abilities.
The club, based at the Parks in North Shields, runs seven senior sides as well as a junior section of more than 70 players.
Anyone interested should contact Steve Troup at stevetroup@ blueyonder.co.uk or ring him on 07742 545 944.