How did you get involved in Hockey?
My parents met playing hockey, so it’s been a constant fixture in my life for as long as I can remember!
How long have you been coaching for?
I started coaching back at my home club, Wolverhampton, after finishing at Birmingham Uni. So that’s a while!
What are your coaching credentials?
Honest reflections on meaningful experiences are the best way to learn; I’ve been trying to do that since I started playing and coaching! I’ve got the old Level 2 EH Award and coached every team at THD bar the M’s & W’s1’s and the women’s VETs! I think that being a qualified teacher and working with children each day informs my work when coaching.
Any coaching philosophy/mantra that you live by?
A couple… Enjoy it! Strive to keep improving each time you play or train, even by a little and recognising team and player qualities (and limitations!) then coaching and playing accordingly. Don’t underestimate the importance of mentality – both as an individual and as a team.
What is your role at THD?
I coach juniors on a Sunday – club training followed by THD Phoenix.
How was the 23/24 season?
I’ve enjoyed working with the juniors this year, especially the Boy’s U14’s & uU6’s. They should be proud of their progress and I’m looking forward to seeing some of them breaking into the adult teams next year.
Phoenix completed its first 2-year cycle so the children will play with the main junior section next year. I think the year has left everyone looking forward to more next season!
What is it about THD? Why should parents sign their kids up?
We really care. We have the skills and expertise to provide amazing training and playing experiences and progression for all our members.
We are open, welcoming and determined to provide opportunities for everyone to play hockey and to be supported to reach their full potential. At all our Junior sites, every Sunday, there is a lovely atmosphere where children - and parents - are all able to enjoy themselves and improve as hockey players. We currently have THD members successfully working through England selection, so there really is no limit! Amongst the coaches, there is a clear direction and shared drive to provide the best for each child. We’re lucky to have experienced and expert coaches across the section – that makes a real difference.
What 3 things will kids take away from your sessions?
Enjoyment, progress, wanting to come back.
How do you progress older kids into adult hockey?
Another one of the strengths of THD is the way we encourage our Junior members to progress in playing adult hockey. Again, care is at the centre of everything we do. We communicate clearly with the junior players and parents. Our team selection is transparent and fair, and all captains recognise the importance and benefits of introducing juniors to adult training and games. There are several teachers and education professionals throughout the club; this expertise helps with the transition to playing adult hockey.
What can beginners expect?
THD welcomes everyone to come and play hockey with us. The Senior Club has ‘Back to Hockey’ teams – chances for people to restart or to take up and try out hockey for the first time. Likewise, at THD Juniors, we are equally happy and able to help a complete beginner, right up to our England hopefuls.
The club runs a thriving junior section (aged 6-18) and is a competitive club at the heart of the local community. We have teams playing over a range of levels from beginners to those representing the region or entering the national pathways. Register your interest here.
