Sevenoaks believe they have recruited a coach who can propel the men’s side “to the next level of Premier League hockey”.
Martin Schouten has appointed as the Kent club’s new director of hockey and Men’s 1s coach – a role that will commence in June.
Originally from South Africa, Schouten brings a wealth of experience to the club from his current roles as Reading women’s 1s Coach, and senior men’s assistant coach and men’s U21 coach at Hockey Wales.
Establishing strategic commercial partnerships, and enhancing relationships with local schools, he will play an integral part, according to the club.
Head of hockey Pete Barker said: “Martin brings with him a wealth of experience having coached in both the Premier league and as the current senior men’s assistant coach for Hockey Wales, coaching them through to this year’s World Cup finals.
“I believe Martin will strengthen the club, assisting player development at all levels, and building on the successes that the club has made over the past 15 years. During this period both the men’s and women’s 1st XI teams have made huge strides to achieve their current positions in National Division One South.
“I am confident that Martin can help propel the club to the next level of Premier League hockey. In the Indoor arena, the men already play in the Premier league and the women in Division One.”
Schouten will also oversee the club’s junior section, which has swelled from 240 members in 2007 to over 500 juniors.
