Blandford & Sturminster Hockey Club:  One year on

Just over a year ago, Blandford & Sturminster Hockey Club made the decision to add to its successful Women’s team by reforming the Men’s section.  Whilst the initial signs were promising, no-one imagined what would follow.

In their inaugural season, the Men’s session led by ex-Blandford players, including captain Paul Cross marauding up the right flank and vice-captains Gareth Mitchinson and Matty Lewis commanding the midfield, finished second in their league and reached the semi-finals of the Hampshire Shield.  This success was rewarded with a double-promotion, putting Blandford among the big-boys of the southern leagues.

The Ladies’ section went even better, completing a league and cup double, losing only a single game in the process.  Like the Men, they jumped from regional hockey to the South-Central league.

This success has not gone unnoticed.  Major sponsors have jumped aboard, including shirt sponsors, The White Horse at Stourpaine, widely recognised as the providers of the best teas in the league; kit supplier Akuma; training sponsor Apoq and equipment sponsor Balling.

With elite support off the pitch, it was up to Blandford to match this with strong performances on the pitch.  Across both sections of the club, they achieved just that.  The Women’s section have gone unbeaten and look early favourites for promotion.  But this season, it is the Men who have set the standard.  Strengthening the side through the signings of Finn Hardiman, Gareth Hardiman and Lee Watkinson from rivals Wimborne, they have had the perfect start.  Five games in, five games won.

Out of the 601 clubs in England and Wales, only three clubs have unbeaten Men’s and Women’s section.  Other than Blandford, only one club combine this with a Men’s section that have won every game so far this season.  For a newly-formed side, promoted into a new league, this is a truly remarkable achievement.

As proud as the club is of their achievement on the pitch, BSHC are equally proud of their contributions to the local community.  Donations to the Yellow Bus Project and Royal British Legion have been matched by volunteering efforts at Blandford Park Run and coaching projects across the Blandford area.

For those who want to become part of this historic journey, opportunities abound.  Whether you would like to join the playing team (training sessions are 7.30pm on Thursdays at Bryanston), media team or officiating staff, please get in touch via BSHC2007@hotmail.com.