A dozen projects are bringing newcomers to the sport from London’s diverse community.
Most of these projects start in state schools, later moving to local clubs. Up to £2,000 has been awarded to each project, paying for coaches, pitches and kit, and are partly being funded from cash that London Hockey inherited from predecessor organisations.
The programme, launched in the autumn of 2023, is in line with England Hockey’s Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) framework, as well as outreach for youngsters, London Hockey Futures also supports Flyerz (pan-disability hockey) and LGBTQI activity.
David Lloyd-Williams, from London Hockey, said: “We hope this work can spread around the country – some Areas have already been in touch to say they’re interested.”
“England Hockey have been supportive, providing template docs and processes from projects they’ve been running in the Midlands. We’re looking to repeat this in future seasons – commercial partners would be very welcome so we might expand.”
As well as traditional hockey clubs, projects are being run by organisations set up specifically, some with charitable status.
The current projects are being run by: Ashford; Ealing; Epsom; Hockey Inner City (Streatham); Indian Gymkhana; London Royals; London Wayfarers (Flyerz); Old Cranleighans; Quick Start Hockey (Wimbledon/Merton); Southgate; Tower Hamlets and Tulse Hill & Dulwich.
Further information can be found here
