Cornerstone of the community Teddington Hockey Club celebrates its 150th anniversary
By Ellie Brown - Local Democracy Reporter 11th Mar 2022
TEDDINGTON HOCKEY CLUB celebrates a landmark milestone this year with its 150th anniversary, retaining its historic reputation as the oldest hockey club in the world.
From humble beginnings in Bushy Park, the club now boasts a membership of over 500 juniors and 300 adult members.
It has acclaimed professional coaches and a large team of volunteers including former Olympians and GB players.
The sport has developed dramatically since the days gentlemen of Teddington Cricket Club bashed an old cricket ball around with handmade wooden sticks of holly and ash.
Teddington Ladies was formed in 1900, and the game soon expanded to national and international level primarily due to improved travel.
Since the 1970s, the club's inspired and progressive leadership has contributed to the modernisation and reform of the structure, playing conditions, rules and the overall ethos of the game.
The days of playing hockey on grass ended in the early 1980s, forcing Teddington Hockey Club to abandon Bushy Park, their beloved home of 130 years.
The club relocated to Teddington School where their club base remains today.
Major success followed throughout the late 1990s, with the club winning the National League in 1995 and the National Cup in 1994 and 1997.
The senior ladies team also enjoyed decorated success through the 1990s, winning promotion to the South Clubs Women's Hockey League in 1997-98 and to Division 1 in 2001-02.
Today the club is deeply committed to inclusive play and boasts seven women's teams, seven men's teams and 23 junior groups.
Clare Freer, club captain and member of Teddington Hockey club for over 30 years said: "There are few sports where both genders and players of all ages are able to come together and compete and feel part of a tight-knit sporting community.
"Although we always strive for excellence amongst our senior sides, our juniors are fundamental to the future of our club and all groups continue to work in perfect harmony."
Mrs Freer stressed that although it is important for decorated history to be celebrated, steering the club in the right direction moving forward is vital.
Sustaining senior positions in the National League of both the men's and ladies' sides remains top priority, as does continuing to encourage the youth to get involved in hockey, as Teddington Hockey Club works towards expanding its communal family for future generations to come.
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