The Flyerz section is now in its third season of offering hockey sessions, under the umbrella of the Rotary Club of Leighton-Linslade’s “Yes We Can” initiative. Despite the impact of the pandemic, we have been able to run nine sessions, between the end of September and mid-December, through adhering to the England Hockey protocols for playing and coaching hockey.

We have nearly fifty people involved in playing, coaching, volunteering, or supporting the section, including a fantastic group of parents. We have sixteen players, who on average were able to attend six sessions but the star player/trainer for the first part of the season was Keira who made all nine sessions. Our volunteers/coaches come from both within the club and outside. In total we have a pool of twelve coaches, who range from level 2 (hockey) coaches to junior volunteers and come from all areas of the club, from first teams through to fourth teams and range in age group from teenaged to “Flying Fifties”.

Everyone who volunteers to help or coach, whether adults or juniors are united in the aim to provide a safe and fun environment to play hockey and to exercise. Sessions now run alongside the under sixteen junior age group, after other younger age groups. This allows us to make best use of pitch space and equipment. It also allows coaches to “double up” but still be compliant with the preparations and protocols needed to play hockey in a “Covid World”. Getting to know our fellow club members and understanding and knowing the players we coach is an essential part of all hockey but especially with our Flyerz section. The personalities involved in all areas of the section are fantastic, as are the rewards of being involved in the group.

We have also been fortunate to receive support from Adam Bone, Project Manager – Flyerz Hockey at Access Sport. Adam and Access Sport were able to provide funding for plastic hockey goals and anti-bacterial sprays – both of which have featured in this season’s sessions.

Our long-term plan remains:

• to grow the number of participants and reach out to the wider community.
• to offer the “best” sessions we can – starting with fun but bringing in all elements of England Hockey’s Golden Thread.
• to increase contact with other hockey clubs that run similar initiatives.
• to look to have joint ventures and participate in Flyerz festivals in the future.
• to keep looking at the offerings from England Hockey to assist in the development of the section.

To deliver on the plan we will be recruiting further volunteers to help with coaching: we are looking for a new lead coach and (team) administrator, with recruitment for and promotion of these roles starting in January 2021.

Leighton Buzzard Hockey Club is extremely proud of the players, coaches and everyone involved with Flyerz. We will continue to welcome new players, volunteer coaches and supporters. And we thank all members of the club for their continued support.

Pete, Cookie, Josh and Tom