George Pinner is preparing for one final push on Europe’s biggest club hockey stage — and he’s doing it with a team he believes is built to win it all.
“This is my last year playing. So to go out with another EHL run, it means a lot,” said the veteran goalkeeper, who confirmed this season will be his swan song. “There’s something special building here.”
Old Georgians return to the Euro Hockey League FINAL8 with momentum, confidence, and medals already in their pockets after a breakout bronze in 2024. Now, Pinner believes, they’re ready to go even further.
“We had a very good year last year,” he said. “I wouldn’t say it went beyond expectations because the aims in the club are very high—but reaching the semi-finals in Europe? That was special.”
Formed in the 1990s and only reaching the top tier of English hockey a few seasons ago, Old Georgians have rapidly become a dominant force. With three straight Premier Division titles and two indoor championships, their domestic form now matches their continental ambition.
“They sat us down a few years ago and said: ‘We want to win the EHL,’” Pinner told EHL website. “When someone says that to you as a player — it’s very, very inspiring.”
That ambition has attracted a star-studded roster. Alongside Pinner are international names like Ashley Jackson, Alan Forsyth, Phil Roper, and Sam Ward.
But Pinner insists it’s the team culture that sets them apart.
“There’s a real club vibe here,” he said. “You have juniors cheering us on, players coaching the younger teams, and a sense that we’re all in this together.”
That environment, he says, creates accountability.
“You’ve got guys who genuinely want to do it for each other. There’s a humility in the group — even with all the talent we have.”
Old Georgians will face Dutch side HC Rotterdam in their FINAL8 opener, a team boasting EHL pedigree and home advantage.
“There’s no easy game at this stage,” Pinner said. “But we’ll focus on us, what we can do to hurt them, whilst giving them the respect they deserve.”
The club made headlines last year after edging out German giants Rot-Weiss Köln for third place, and confidence remains high.
“We know what we’re capable of,” said Pinner. “We’re not just here to participate.”
With retirement looming, Pinner is soaking up every moment.
“It’s emotional, of course,” he admitted. “You think about all the people, all the games, and what it’s taken to get here. But there’s no better way to end than with a group that believes in something bigger.”
Whether this campaign ends in a medal or not, Pinner knows this is a team with staying power.
“We’ve shown we can compete at this level,” he said. “And I truly believe Old Georgians can win the EHL—if not this year, then very soon.”
For now, though, it’s all about one last dance.
“One last go,” Pinner smiled. “Let’s make it count.”
