This Saturday saw our club’s festival – the Grove Menzieshill Hockey Club. It’s a family-friendly club that focuses on participation, team spirit and enjoyment rather than competition (but we are happy when we win!).
For this final event of the season, we made the journey to Dawson Park one last time with our sticks slung over our shoulders, had a laugh with friends, looked forward to the holidays ahead and even enjoyed the little ray of sunshine that had the good sense to join the party.
Harry and G.I., our brilliant coaches, along with Sam, have organised everything and are sorting out the final sporting details, helped by Daniel and Harry 2 (the latter having a great time with his megaphone).

Meanwhile, the volunteers are pitching the tents under Jennifer’s guidance.
Once the 10 teams of four or five U10s – the first age group to play – have been allocated to the various pitches, and U12 and U14 referees have been assigned to each match, the day can begin.
The parents are cheering on the players; the atmosphere is friendly, but it’s a real battle on the pitch!

When the wind picks up and a light drizzle begins to fall, we head over to the buffet, run by our four brilliant volunteers, to enjoy a hot chocolate, a coffee or a little cupcake before the end of the first session and the long-awaited graduation ceremony!

The players are called up one by one and, with big smiles on their faces, collect their end-of-season certificates to the applause of their teammates.

After a group photo, it was time for the U12 matches on larger pitches, with teams of 7 or 8.
At half-time, a break was needed!
For £5, the players receive a packed lunch prepared by Jennifer. We gather to enjoy a ham or cheese sandwich, some crisps, an apple and a small chocolate bar, not forgetting the fruit juice.
Play resumes on the pitches amid a cheerful atmosphere.

The final whistle blows, and following the second graduation ceremony of the day, it’s already time for the last session of the year: the U16 match on the full-size pitch. Twenty-four players, two teams of 12, and off we go!

The bravest supporters are still watching the teams come and go from the sidelines. On the same time, others are preparing the raffle, which starts as soon as the match ends.
Prizes on offer include hockey bags, balls and tracksuits, a few bottles of wine and bars of chocolate. People jostle in front of the tables in the hope of spotting their number, whereas some children happily tuck into the leftovers from the buffet.

It is now 2.30 pm and it is already time for our final goodbyes. The parents are clearing away the buffet tables and helping the coaches put the equipment away in the club’s shelter.
Our coaches are now off on a well-deserved holiday.

Have a great holiday, everyone, and see you next year!

Victor LHUISSIER