Telford & Wrekin HC Boosts Primary School Hockey with Midlands Hockey Youth Association Funding

The club successfully delivered a significant boost to primary school hockey in the region, thanks to funding from the Midlands Hockey Youth Support (MHYS). The club secured a grant that enabled their coach, Matt Hadley-Moore, to provide 36 hours of coaching across six local primary schools, introducing the sport to over 150 children.

The MHYS, the organising body for field hockey in the Midlands, supports the development of the sport at all levels. This funding initiative specifically targeted grassroots participation, providing opportunities for children to experience hockey for the first time.

Telford & Wrekin HC's successful application for funding was contingent on their achievement of the England Hockey ClubMark Award. This accreditation demonstrates that the club operates to a high standard, with appropriate risk assessments, policies, and procedures in place, ensuring a safe and well-organised environment for all participants.

The impact of the coaching sessions has been overwhelmingly positive, with both children and teachers expressing their enthusiasm.

Matt, the club coach, commented: "It was so great to coach a bunch of enthusiastic kids, 95% of them picking up a stick for the first time. The teachers were all really supportive. Already looking forward to working with them again in the future.”

Feedback from the participating schools has been equally enthusiastic:

• St George’s Primary School, Clare Holt: "Thank you so much for our hockey sessions. The children (and staff) really enjoyed taking part."
• Redhill Primary, Stuart Baldwin: "The children loved the sessions and I know that the staff got some really valuable CPD. A big thanks to T&WHC and Matt for arranging it!"
• Lilleshall Primary, Christobel Cousin: "We always enjoy welcoming coaches from Telford to run sessions at Lilleshall, always fun and engaging, the kids love it."

Sunny Sahota, Head of Juniors, added: “A big thank you to the Midlands HA for providing the much-needed funding. Without this financial support, it’s incredibly difficult to provide coaching in schools. We are excited about the new England Hockey initiative about delivering hockey into more state schools over the coming years and building stronger links with the local community. And of course a big thank you to all the schools for their efforts to make it happen.”

This initiative highlights the importance of partnerships between hockey clubs, regional associations like the MHYS, and schools in fostering the growth of the sport at a young age. The ClubMark accreditation ensures that participating clubs like Telford & Wrekin HC are well-equipped to deliver high-quality and safe coaching experiences.

Article also on the Midlands HA website: https://midlands.englandhockey.co.uk/midlands-hockey-news/telford-and-wrekin-hc-boost-primary-school-hockey