In normal times, the hockey season would be heading toward its conclusion right now, after several glorious months of competitive play, writes Jean Fitch.
Teams would be battling hard and making a final push to secure the highest possible standing in their divisions, ideally looking for promotion for the next season. Sadly, although some play has been possible in the 2020-21 season, the decision across the leagues has been to abandon any further matches.
Bedford Hockey Club is in the fortunate position of being one of the largest and most successful hockey clubs in the region. This fact, along with the Club having access to superb facilities in Queen’s Park, means that unlike many other clubs, the end of lock-down provides an opportunity for play to commence once again.
Having over 500 members, with seven men’s and seven ladies’ senior teams, a thriving junior section, and Walking Hockey, even the absence of any travelling opposition hasn’t prevented hockey returning. As soon as lock-down ended, midweek stick and ball training and Walking Hockey recommenced, and weekends are once more seeing a full schedule of matches, with teams being formed from within the Club. Junior training is also starting up again. The plan is to continue with matches and training beyond what would have normally been the conclusion of the season.
The end of the season each year marks the commencement of a mixed summer league of hockey. All being well, it is hoped that not only will this continue, as usual, but will grow into an ever-larger league of local teams.
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Bedford Hockey Club is in the fortunate position of being one of the largest and most successful hockey clubs in the region. This fact, along with the Club having access to superb facilities in Queen’s Park, means that unlike many other clubs, the end of lock-down provides an opportunity for play to commence once again.
