OLD REIGATIAN HOCKEY

Whiteley Village. We scored more points away from home than any other side in the league and the second most points at home.

I must mention our Under 15 girls team who won the National Cup in a highly competitive final against Cheltenham North at Sixways Stadium. Recognising the growth of the girls’ section, we have formed a partnership with Ealing Trailfinders.

Finally, it would be remiss not to mention David Forsyth, who, after 10 years as Chair, handed over the reins. His steady leadership saw the club survive two arson attacks, reinstatement of the club and a national pandemic. He has left it in the steady hands of lifelong clubman Ben Hamps. Who, supported by an army of volunteers, will take the club forward and continue our success.

With thanks to Kate Birinder-Ross, ORRFC Hon Secretary

The 2021-22 season in the revised south structure ended with the 1sts finishing last but one in their division and being demoted and the 2nds and 3rds each bottom of theirs but not demoted, as teams dropped out. The summer was spent in a large online recruitment exercise, led by the Club’s communications expert Jonny Kyle, and this has resulted in a good number of new players. This means fielding three teams is easier and the league positions are better. At the Christmas break this season the 1sts and 3rds are midtable in their divisions, although the 2nds are last but one in theirs.

The Club was formed at a meeting in the school on 16 December 1960 and so was 60 years old in December 2020. Plans to celebrate were deferred because of COVID but at last we were able to have a celebration. This was a buffet lunch at the Reigate Manor Hotel, Reigate Hill on 17 September (pictured right) and was a success, with original or very early players Ian Flack, Graham Hudson, Arthur Offen and Douglas Treacher joining John Chisholm, Roger Doyle, Richard Munnery, Adrian Taylor, Peter Wheatley and current players, including those who have just begun their playing career. There is a booklet with the Club’s history available free (email contact opposite).

The Club is always keen to recruit at any age and ability. If you would like to return to hockey, please contact Rob Evans on 07718 128575 for more details. Or look at the website www.orhc.info where a lot of work is carried out to make this one of the best hockey club websites.

With thanks to Ian Whiteman (RGS 1953-1961), ORHC Treasurer ian_whiteman@hotmail.com