Sarah "Ralpshie" Ralphs Takes the Helm: New Lead Coach for Telford & Wrekin Ladies

Telford & Wrekin Hockey Club is thrilled to announce that Sarah "Ralpshie" Ralphs, currently leading the Men's 1st XI, will be taking over as the new Lead Coach for the Ladies Section. This marks an exciting new venture for Ralpshie, who is confident the experience will be enriching for both herself and the players, including nurturing the section's promising juniors. 

Ralpshie's coaching philosophy prioritises empowering individuals, fostering teamwork, and promoting resilience through transparency and honesty. She firmly believes that consistent performance stems from collaboration. Her approach combines enthusiasm, discipline, motivation, strong communication, and strategic thinking with empathy and positivity, all within a safe yet challenging team-oriented environment.

A lifelong hockey enthusiast, Ralpshie's playing career saw her compete at high levels, including the National League Conference to Premier League with Cannock Ladies, playing alongside future GB & England stars Georgie Twigg, Hollie Webb, and Ellie Watton. Her extensive coaching journey began with Tamworth Ladies and Men, then transitioned to Cannock Ladies' 1st XI in the National League, where she coached players like current England Captain Lily Walker.

In a youth environment, Ralpshie has been an integral part of the England Hockey Junior Player Pathway for many years, working with young talent at various levels. Her impressive credentials include:

• England Hockey Diploma in Sporting Excellence (DiSE) Girls Coach – 6 years
• Midlands Boys Performance Centre & Challenge Cup Coach
• Shropshire Junior Head Coach
• Futures Cup Coach U18 Girls – 4 years
• HiPAC (High Performance Coach) for U15 Boys – 2 years
• Junior Regional Performance Centre (JRPC) Coach Midlands – 4 years
• Lead Coach of Stoke Boys Talent Academy (current role)

Ralpshie's deep understanding of the game, combined with her loyalty, commitment, and organisational skills, makes her an ideal fit for the Ladies Section. Her ability to build strong, open relationships and inspire growth, even through challenges, ensures her impact extends far beyond the pitch.

The club looks forward to an inspiring new chapter for the Ladies Section under Sarah's leadership, as she continues to develop talent across all ages.

Chris Nightingale, Chairman of Telford & Wrekin Hockey Club, expressed his excitement: "We are absolutely thrilled to welcome Sarah Ralphs to lead our Ladies Section. Her vast experience, from playing at the highest levels to her extensive work within the England Hockey junior pathway, makes her an invaluable asset. Sarah's passion for developing players and her proven coaching philosophy will undoubtedly usher in an inspiring new chapter for our ladies' teams and promising juniors. We also want to extend our sincere thanks to Gary Stacey for his tremendous hard work and dedication as Head of Ladies Coaching over the past six years. His contributions have been immense, and we wish him all the very best."