EGHC - Women's New Club Captain

"I am thrilled to be taking on the role of Women's Club Captain at East Grinstead Hockey Club, and I am incredibly honoured, proud and excited to accept the role.

For those who don't know me, my journey with EGHC started when I was just 15. I came through the club's junior section, playing in both the indoor and outdoor age-group teams, before progressing into the senior women's section. I was fortunate enough to play for both the Women's 1s and 2s, as well as being Vice Captain of the 2s at just 17. I eventually left the club at 19 to go to university, but EGHC has always held a very special place in my heart. Returning to the club and now having the opportunity to take on the role of Women's Club Captain feels incredibly special.

Away from hockey, I am a PE teacher at Sutton Valence School, where I have worked for the past six years. Sport has always been a huge part of my life, and I love being able to share that passion with young people through my teaching and coaching. When I'm not at school or on the hockey pitch, you will usually find me at the yard with my horse, Sonic, who keeps me very busy!

One of the things I have always loved about EGHC is the sense of belonging and community. Having been here as a junior, left, and then returned, I have seen different sides of the club, but the one thing that has remained constant is the people. There is a real sense of pride in wearing the EGHC shirt, and I want to help make sure that every player, whatever their age or level, feels that same pride and enjoyment.

I would also like to take this opportunity to say a huge thank you to Lottie. She has been incredible in the role and has set a fantastic example of what it means to be a Club Captain. Lottie has always been someone I have looked up to and someone I have aspired to be like, both as a player and as a person. I have learnt a huge amount from watching how she leads, supports and brings people together, and I feel very lucky to be following in her footsteps. She has certainly left some big shoes to fill!

Looking ahead, I want the Women's section to continue to be ambitious, competitive and, most importantly, enjoyable. We have a fantastic group of players across our teams, with a great mix of experience and young talent coming through. Having seen first-hand how important the junior pathway can be, I am particularly passionate about making sure we continue to support and encourage our younger players as they make the transition into senior hockey.

Of course, results and performances matter. We all want to win, compete at the highest level we can and continue to progress as teams. But being Club Captain is about much more than what happens on a Saturday. It is about creating an environment where people want to turn up, play for each other, support one another and feel proud to be part of EGHC. I am already planning our first club social for the women's section, which I am really looking forward to, as it will be a great opportunity to bring everyone together and meet lots of new faces.

I also want to make sure that the Women's section continues to feel like one club. Whether you are playing in any of our women's teams, from the 1s through to the 5s, are new to the club, have been here for years, are returning to hockey, or are one of the many people who volunteer and support behind the scenes, you are an important part of what makes EGHC so special.

I would also like to wish Will Denney the very best of luck as he takes on the role of Men's Club Captain. Will is a hugely valued member of EGHC, and I am really looking forward to working closely with him and supporting each other as we help the club continue to grow and thrive.

I am incredibly excited for the season ahead and for the opportunity to work with our captains, coaches, players and everyone involved in the club. I hope we can have a season full of great hockey, plenty of laughter, lots of support for one another and, of course, plenty of wins!

Most importantly, I want everyone who pulls on an EGHC shirt to feel proud to be part of this club.

Here's to a fantastic season for EGHC and the Women's section. I cannot wait to get started"!

Beth