Nottingham Hockey Centre has completed the installation of the UK’s first Hockey5s pitch.
The project involved altering the fencing of the former cage pitch to meet the dimensions required for international Hockey5s. The new fencing has created a walkway through to the Orchard, which was planted in 2019, and will now be used as a picnic area for the summer events hosted at the hockey centre.
Nottingham Hockey Centre and Beeston HC chairman, David Griffiths, said: “This is a monumental step forward for both our local community and the sport of hockey. A huge thank you to our incredible partners, Britvic and PepsiCo, whose support has been essential in bringing this project to life.
“I’d also like to extend my heartfelt gratitude to the dedicated staff at the Hockey Centre who have worked tirelessly to make this a reality. Their hard work and commitment have been crucial in delivering a world-class facility that will inspire the next generation of players and elevate the game to new heights.”
The new pitch has been lined to FIH Hockey5s international specification with space down either side of the pitch for temporary stadia for events in the future.
FIH Facilities Manager, Alastair Cox said: “A key objective when developing Hockey5s was to create a game than can be played in urban areas, using a smaller field, making hockey more accessible and attractive to younger audiences. The new facility at Nottingham is an excellent example of how this can be achieved.
The centre’s commitment to reducing carbon emissions through the installation of LED floodlights across the site, solar panels, and most recently, electric vehicle charging bays demonstrates a proactive approach to environmental stewardship.
The Centre was awarded the Sustainable Club of the Year at the recent England Hockey awards dinner.
Additionally, Netherlands-based Fikagear supplied the centre with the Hockey5s boarding, which they have recently developed.
