Alex Danson-Bennett says her summer masterclasses are a ‘very personal mission’ to inspire the future, writes Imogen Ainsworth.
Her Alex Danson Hockey Academy will be delivering masterclasses across the country this month.
The goal to ‘Inspire the Future’ was one of the three set out by the Team GB women’s hockey squad in Rio. Not only have they done this through their collective achievement of winning gold, but there have also been personal efforts to carry on this legacy.
Danson is no exception after 18 years on the international scene. She now aims to pass on her experience to the next generation of hockey players in partnership with leisure provider, Everyone Active.
The partnership, she says, shows her commitment to developing grassroots hockey.
She believes that encouraging young people to ‘get outside, and get active’ to be extremely important during the school holidays.
“It is excellent for young people to have that additional activity especially in the holidays, sometimes you’re not doing as much as you would at school,” she said.
Danson brings with her a star-studded line up of professional coaches. These include Barry Middleton, Beckie Middleton and current young England rising star Catherine Ledesma.
The sessions aim to give children from the ages of 11-18 an opportunity to get out on the hockey pitch and get active.
During the masterclasses, players will take part in a morning and an afternoon session, demonstrations, and a Q&A session with Alex, which parents and siblings are welcome to attend. These sessions are a great experience for any young player, where they can practice and learn skills through the coaching of current and former international players.
The masterclasses will be held from August 10-26.
Blue Harts HC, Hitchin Tuesday 10th August
Shobnall Leisure Centre, Burton on Trent Wednesday 11th August
Bowdon Hockey Club, Altringham Thursday 12th August
Leeds Hockey Club, Leeds Friday 13th August
Harleston Magpies Hockey Club, Diss Tuesday 24th August
Wimbledon Hockey Club, London Wednesday 25th August
Devizes Hockey Club, Wiltshire Thursday 26th August
For more information about the masterclasses and bookings
