Beginner’s Hockey in London goes from Strength
to Strength.
By Alex Nicholls, December 2001
Alex scored a goal!
Saturday the 29th of December 2001 was wet; at least it was outside The
Balham Gaff. But as seems to be the norm. Sunday, though a little cold, was
bright, sunny and almost cloudless. Ideal weather for Hockey. With this thought
in my poor, hung over head, I forced myself out of bed and into the shower.
Sixty minutes later, I’m skating down Serpentine Road towards the Albert
Memorial with Ben. A bag of hockey sticks slung over one shoulder a bag of pad
over the other. After half an hour a few more people start to turn up and the
hockey gets under way.
The Turnout is good. Beginner’s Hockey has got a good nucleus of regular
players. People like Steve, Rick, Johanna, Mike and Alistair. These people are
there religiously every Sunday, and are always happy to help out new skaters and
new hockey players.
Steve's having a rest...
And the last Beginner’s Hockey session of 2001 saw a great injection of new
blood. Matt, Damian, Vicky, Mark and Steve (that’s right London skating has yet
another Steve) all came along for their hockey debut and all had a great time.
It’s good to see some new faces down the park.
What a fantastic session. Once again we played hockey until it was too dark
to see the ball then headed down to The Vic for a post match drink. Se here’s to
Beginner’s Hockey in 2002. Hopefully Zeus the Greek God of Weather will continue
to look favourably on us and Make Sundays shine. Hopefully a few of our new
faces become regular plays. Hopefully a few more people will hear about
beginner’s hockey and decide to give it a go. Why not become one of them.
You often get several groups of players in
the summer - from really good experienced players in the distance in this photo,
to relatively new players playing closer to the camera. Regardless of
ability, everyone loves playing hockey, and most are very tolerant of and
helpful to new players.
If you fancy trying your hand at street hockey then come down and give it a
go. Weather permitting we can be found by the Albert Memorial in Kensington
Gardens every Sunday from about 12:30. You’ll need your own skates and I’d
recommend a minimum of knee, wrist and elbow pads. We have plenty of spare
sticks so come down and give it a try. It’s open to everybody of all ages and
sexes. A fantastic way to spend a Sunday.
For more information check
out the FAQ.
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