The Brilliant Badgers
For those of you who are wondering what we have been 'badgering' on about...Badgers hockey is designed to help junior players, who are on the cusp of senior hockey, make the transition to 11-a-side, full-pitch game. Each team can field up to three adult players and at least eight junior players (aged between 12yrs and 16yrs). The adult players' role is to act as on-the-pitch coaches and to facilitate play. They have various restrictions placed upon them, such as not being allowed in the attacking 'D'.
Newark have competed in the newly formed Hurricane Sports development league this season and played home and away matches against four other teams based in the west Lincolnshire area as well as three friendlies against SBU and Mansfield. Of the seven matches played so far, Newark has won four, drawn two and lost just on and we intend to organise an informal league for interested Nottinghamshire clubs next season.
Over the season, 45 different junior members have played Badgers hockey for Newark and the majority of these players do not play senior hockey. All the coaches have seen the confidence and ability of these young players improve significantly and the performances have been outstanding. This impact has been largely helped by the encouragement and advice given by the adults who have played Badgers - 15 different adults have been involved this season.Most importantly, we have worked hard to ensure all our games are fun, our players enjoy their experience and grow to love hockey even more.
Most recently Newark Badgers travelled to Horncastle to compete in the Hurricane Sports development hockey festival.
Representing Newark juniors were Robbie Robertshaw (capt), Isabelle Robertshaw, Evie Thompson, Ellie Smith, Josh Kent, Duncan Stocks, Benjamin Smith, Joshua Thornton, Emil Liniewicz and Kian Hunter. They were supported by Jack McMunn, Simon Higgs, Craig Joynes and Doug Thompson.
The team donned their face with red and green paints to fully immerse themselves in the festival mood and proceeded to win all their four matches. The results were 1-0 win over Leadenham, 2-0 win over Horncastle, 1-0 win over Spalding and 4-0 win over Sleaford.
Needless to say Newark were overall champions with each player receiving a winner's medal. In addition, Robbie Robertshaw and Ellie Smith were announced players of the tournament.
A great day out with lots of fun and sweets plus some incredible hockey from our young talented players.
Thanks to Gary at Hurricane Sports for organising the tournament and our brilliant, supportive parents.
A perfect end to a perfect Badgers season.
AGM Tonight!!
This is on Wednesday 26th April 2017, 7:15pm, in the Jubilee Room, Flowserve Sports & Social Club. There will be no hockey on this night. The AGM is your opportunity to find out what has been happening across the club this season, hear plans for the future and have your say!
Presentation Evenings
Juniors Presentation - 30 April 2017 23rd April was the last Hockey training session. This week (30th April) is a fun tournament, Presentation and BBQ. From 9am The Academy players and coaches will help organise, play in and run the Fun Hockey Tournament to include anyone who wants to play. Parents of our Younger members are encouraged to help and take part. The Presentations and the Raffle will be from 1130am. If you would like to donate a raffle prize then please bring this week or on 30th. Raffle tickets, £1 per strip will be on sale on the day. 1230 onwards BBQ - please ensure you purchase food tickets in advance. Adult Presentation Evening - 3 June 2017 The adult end of season evening will be held at the Holy Trinity Community Centre, Boundary Road, Newark from 7pm onwards. Tickets will be available to purchase at the AGM and following Wednesday evenings at the Magnus - £15 for hog roast and desserts. Trophies will be presented to the players of the season for each team, top goal scorer, volunteers of the year and team of the year.