Members of Lancaster and Morecambe Hockey Club spoke to Beyond Radio about their future plans.
Club chairman Matthew Winder, vice-chairman Adam Horobin and first team player Amy Reid were guests on the Saturday Sports Show on January 27th.
They talked about how the club was formed, the season so far and what is most important to them – welcoming new people to the sport, especially their club.
The club was founded in 1985 under the name ‘Morecambe & District Hockey Club’, changing to Lancaster & Morecambe Hockey Club (LAMHC) in 2012.
The club, which has three senior women’s teams and one men’s team, was founded in response to the growing popularity of hockey at the 1984 Summer Olympics.
The club hopes to see similar interest in the sport at this summer’s Paris Olympics.
Club chairman Matthew Winder told Beyond Radio:
“The club was formed around that time and a pitch was brought to Salt Aire.
“I really think so [hockey] can grow [during the Olympics.
“The women’s GB team have had three amazing Olympics – to get a silver, a gold and a bronze is just quite exceptional.
“I watched the men’s team in the qualification matches and they were excellent.
“They have players who would be household names in any other sport.”
LAMHC, who play home games at the University of Cumbria, are hoping to attract enough people in the coming months for there to be new teams for the 2024/25 season.
“We would like to enter two development teams into leagues, which give younger people a great opportunity to join the club and play league hockey on a Saturday,” said Matthew.
“Many other local clubs have entered development teams and we’d really like to do that too.
“Anybody who is 13 or over is entitled to play.
“It enables the club to play experienced, quality players in that team so they can pass on their wisdom to the younger players and encourage them to play.
“That’s really the heart of our club, that’s what we’re really good at. We hope to continue that into the future.”
Amy Read, who is only 16 years old, has made her way up through the club’s system and is now in the first team.
She said the club’s encouragement and support has helped her become the player she is.
“Even if, when you join the juniors, you know absolutely nothing [about hockey]the club teaches you the basics to really progress,” said Amy.
“I started out as a junior knowing nothing and then played third and second.
“It can be a little daunting to play in the first team, but we have all great women that you know who have been through this system, especially our captain. [Verity Brogan] he was really great. ”
Teams at all levels have had strong seasons so far, often sitting mid-table after just over half of their matches have been played.
“I think we did great this season,” Amy said.
“Every week brings a new challenge.
“We have all been training and are aiming to work well as a team to progress and move up the table for Saturday’s game.”
All teams will be coached by England qualified coach Mike Sambell.
Sambell is supported by Scotland national team coach Gordon Davidson and Gordon’s son Alex as first-team coaches.
Matthew says the trio forms a “really good coaching system.”
Junior training takes place on Monday nights and senior training takes place on Thursday nights.
Clubs also have a big social aspect.
Vice President Adam Horobin co-organized social events and presentations to emphasize the club’s sense of community.
“The social aspect is one of the main reasons I’m a part of the club. It’s a family, friendly atmosphere,” Adam said.
“Clubs have large social circles and can have a really positive impact on your mental health.”
Amy said she has made “lifelong friends” through her involvement with the club.
If you would like more information about Lancaster and Morecambe Hockey Club, including training times, how to join the team and match dates, please visit our website and social media pages.
To hear the full interview with Lancaster and Morecambe Hockey Club’s Matthew Winder, Adam Horobin and Amy Reid, play the Saturday Sports Show on January 27th on the ‘Listen Again’ page of the Beyond Radio website. please listen.