The opening rounds of the 2025/26 English Hockey Championships have already shown why clubs across the country value the opportunity to participate. They offer experiences that go beyond competitive hockey, from development opportunities and new opposition to shared club moments both on and off the field.
Old Williamsonians embrace the competitive spirit in the Women’s Tier 2 Trophy
Old Williamsonians hosted Woking knowing they were facing a side competing a league above. Woking demonstrated their quality to record a 5-0 victory, but the match was not decided by the score, but by the competitive spirit and shared enjoyment.
With several players transferring from their 2nd XI, Old Williamsonians used the tie to give developing team members valuable exposure. Excellent referees and mutual respect between the two clubs contributed to an unforgettable experience.
Maddie from Old Williamsonians said after the match:“It’s rare to lose 5-0 and really enjoy the game, but that’s exactly what happened. These cup games give our younger players the chance to show what they’re made of. Sometimes a great tackle against a Premier player can feel as good as scoring a goal. For us, this is what the cup is all about – developing our youngsters, playing teams we wouldn’t normally face in the league, and coming away with a smile no matter the result.”
The competition captured the heart of the championships: development, new challenges and love for the game.
We move on to R2 of the Trophy, as Old Williamsonians get a second bite of the cherry with an R1 draw in the Plate, the Trophy’s secondary competition.
New opponents and shared spirit in Women’s Tier 4 Bowl
Horwich 1 and West Derby 1 faced off in the Women’s Tier 4 Bowl, with West Derby claiming a 3-1 win in a competitive, enjoyable match. The two clubs came together for a team photo after the match, which reflected both the spirit of the day and the special nature of the cup matches.
Aimee Gilmore shared:“It was a very competitive, fun and tough battle. We enjoyed playing against someone new, and the Cup gives you a break from the pressure of competitive matches – especially in the first round where you get a second chance if you lose.”
Horwich now look ahead to R1 of the Salver, the secondary competition for the Bowl, while West Derby progress to the next round of the Bowl.
West Hampstead secure the home win and celebrate the value of the Vaas
Men’s Tier 3 vase: West Hampstead M2 2–0 Ipswich M2
A busy weekend at West Hampstead HC saw two men’s teams in cup action, with the M2s recording a 2-0 win over Ipswich in the Men’s Tier 3 Vase.
Despite varying conditions – sun, rain and everything in between – both sides delivered fast, end-to-end hockey. After a tight opening half with strong goalkeeping on both sides, West Hampstead’s pressure finally showed in the final quarter, with Aaron Stanyard scoring twice from close range to seal the win.
For West Hampstead, the Cup provides value beyond results:
M2 Captain Rich Shapland said: “Our performance in the competition has left a lot to be desired… but the M2s have become something of a Cup specialist team. Good results in the Tier 3 Vase will help motivate us and also take us to better results in the competition!”
Former M1 captain Pete Newton highlighted the wider club impact: “Cup runs are a unifying experience… with new faces, places and clubhouses that inspire both on and off the pitch. England Hockey offers that opportunity even for amateur players within its cup formats.”
Club communications officer Sasha Prokofev added: “It’s hard to build engagement on a full Saturday in the league, with so many different games and no real focus. Cup weekends give us the chance to bring supporters together – last season we had around 100 people for the semi-final; this year we’re aiming to double that number!”
West Hampstead progress to R2 of the Vase, while Ipswich get the chance for another match in the Shield competition to continue the experience for first round losers.
Celebrating the ‘Cup’ experience
From development opportunities and supportive atmosphere to new opposition and shared club memories, the first round matches demonstrated the unique role the Championships play in clubs’ seasons.
Whether progressing to the next round or heading to sub-competitions, teams across the country continue to make the most of the opportunities the ‘Cup’ offers: togetherness, learning and experiences that last long after the final whistle.
If your club did not participate this season but would like to participate next season, please email jo.stratfull@englandhockey.co.uk to be added to the waiting list.
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