Welcome to 2026/27 South Central Hockey

The wait is almost over – the 2026/27 hockey season is here!

After the summer break, hockey clubs across the South Central Area are preparing to get back on the pitch as another exciting season of league and competition hockey gets underway.

The new season promises plenty to look forward to, with teams competing across the South Central adult leagues, junior competitions and Masters hockey, alongside the many other opportunities to play, officiate, coach and volunteer across the Area.

A bigger season ahead

The 2026/27 South Central League structure has now been confirmed, with a significant influx of teams meaning several divisions will have 14 teams this season – particularly in the South/Solent women's leagues.

The first matches for the 13- and 14-team divisions are scheduled for 12 September 2026, with the remaining divisions starting on 19 September.

The league programme will run through to 10 April 2027, with the South Central League Play-Offs scheduled for 24 April 2027.

With more teams, more fixtures and plenty of new challenges ahead, clubs can now look forward to a full season of competitive hockey. (South Central Hockey)

Everything you need for the season

The South Central Hockey website remains the central source of information for clubs, players, coaches, team managers and volunteers.

The website provides access to:

• 2026/27 league divisions and fixtures
• Adult League regulations and supporting documents
• Junior competition information and resources
• Officiating guidance and resources
• Masters hockey
• League results and match information
• Top goalscorers and goalkeeper clean-sheet statistics
• News, newsletters and important updates

Clubs and team officials are encouraged to check the website regularly throughout the season so that they are aware of the latest information, regulations and competition updates. (South Central Hockey)

New season – new rules

There are also important rule changes for 2026/27.

Updated England Hockey rule guidance came into effect from 1 September 2026, following the latest revisions to the FIH Rules of Hockey. Among the changes are updated guidance around players on the pitch, the permanent adoption of the aerial ball rule trial, penalty-corner protective equipment, and clarification for goalkeepers and umpires.

Everyone involved in the game should make sure they understand the rules and, importantly, check the specific regulations applying to their competition. (South Central Hockey)

Celebrating performance

South Central Hockey will once again recognise the individual and team achievements taking place across our leagues.

The Top Scorers and Clean Sheets section of the website will be updated during the season using the match information uploaded by clubs to GMS. It provides an opportunity to recognise leading goalscorers and goalkeepers while celebrating those players who make an important contribution to their teams. (South Central Hockey)

So, whether you are a striker looking to top the goalscoring charts, a goalkeeper aiming for the clean-sheet table, or simply someone who loves playing the game, there will be plenty to follow throughout the season.

Officiating is at the heart of the game

No match can take place without umpires, and South Central Hockey continues to support the development of officiating across the Area.

There are opportunities for umpires at different stages of their development, from those primarily officiating for their own club through to those seeking regular neutral appointments and looking to progress their umpiring.

Clubs also have an important role to play in developing the next generation of officials. Supporting young and developing umpires today is essential to the future of our sport. (South Central Hockey)

Good luck for the season

A new hockey season is always a time for optimism.

For players, it means the excitement of pulling on the shirt again. For coaches and team managers, it means planning, preparation and new challenges. For umpires and officials, it means another busy season of matches. And for the many volunteers who work behind the scenes, it means another year of making hockey happen.

South Central Hockey would like to wish every club, team, player, coach, umpire, official, volunteer and supporter across the Area a fantastic 2026/27 season.

Play hard. Play fair. Enjoy your hockey.

Good luck everyone – and welcome back!

Keep up to date throughout the season at South Central Hockey.

South Central Hockey