SATURDAY, September 9, saw Mid Somerset Hockey Club, which began life as Moorland Hockey Club 100 years ago, celebrate their centenary year with a fun-filled hockey event at their home ground at the Blue School, Wells.
In the morning youngsters were given an opportunity to try their hand at hockey on the astro-turf during fun activities co-ordinated by some of the senior players and coaches.
Cameron Dunn, chairman of the club committee and ladies’ coach, said: “Hockey is a fantastic sport for the progression of youngsters promoting physical, mental, and social development while instilling valuable life lessons. It’s a sport that can have a lasting positive impact on individuals and help forge lifelong friendships.”
In the afternoon it was the turn of older players to take to the pitch to battle it out in a mixed seven-a-side tournament. Current Mid Somerset players were joined by veterans of the club and players from outside the county to battle it out in a hard fought but good natured contest. In fact, one of the current Mid Somerset players competing on the day is related to a gentleman who turned out to play for the club in its inaugural season. After the exertions on the pitch everybody was able to enjoy a barbecue on the grounds of the local Scout Group which adjoins the pitch.
Cameron said of the event: “We were thrilled at the turnout. We were worried that the extreme temperatures might put people off coming, but they still came – I think that the local suncream outlets did well on the day.
“There was a perfect blend of fun and competition. Watching the juniors take to the pitch with such excitement and determination, undeterred by the weather, and players old and new giving their all in the seven-a-side tournament made us extremely proud of our club.
“It’s an honour to chair the club during its centenary year and I’d like to thank all of the members of the committee who worked so hard to make the day a success and the Blue School Sports Centre who helped make it all possible.
“Big thanks as well to the Scouts who let us use their premises on the day.”
On the back of a successful day it was announced that the children’s activities and seven-a-side tournament would become an annual event for the club.
Mid Somerset Hockey Club is always looking to welcome new players, both male and female. They would be delighted to hear from people whether they have played hockey before or not. Visit their website at midsomersethc.co.uk to find out more.