Dear All
Happy New Year and welcome to 2021! It started with huge promise and I had prepared a totally different message to start the season but as we’re now in a Lockdown 3.0, I’d like to give you an update.
For seniors, all training and league matches are postponed with immediate effect. Once we have an idea on when restrictions will be lifted, we will share England Hockey’s Return to Play Roadmap with you and a plan on how we can all get back to hockey as soon as possible. The majority of leagues had put in a resumption date of mid February but this is now likely to change.
How will senior leagues be decided? Each league committee is making their own arrangements but at the moment it’s anticipated that league results will be decided on the basis of each team playing each other once, whether that’s a home or away game. For our Men’s 1s a decision has been made that there will be no relegations this season. We have not yet had the same clarity from other leagues given so much uncertainty. When we do, you will be updated by your Captain. We also have England Hockey’s League restructure to work through and more information will be sent out soon.
For juniors, unfortunately we are also unable for activity to continue at this time. We will recommence Junior Hockey as soon as possible and will follow all the latest guidance from England Hockey. We understand the importance of sport and the mental wellbeing, especially when children are not being allowed to return to the classroom. Lauren Moors our Director of Junior Hockey is working on some engaging activities for the juniors during this period of lockdown and more information will be available soon.
View the official England Hockey statement.
In respect of subscriptions we’re not proposing any amendments to the current fees in place. Not only are these used to manage the existing seasons costs but to plan for the future. We still continue to have outgoings during this time and whilst the end of lockdown is unclear, as restrictions begin to lift, we will do what we can to extend the season and build out a bigger summer programme for all playing members. We’ll share more information when we can.
I know this is a hugely challenging time for many. Whether it be mentally, financially or emotionally. Please do what you can to keep in touch with one another, it’s the simply gestures that make the world of difference. There is also the OCHC Strava group for playing and non-playing members who need competitive motivation.
Finally, for those that live locally the OC Club is now open for take aways and local deliveries. We would appreciate it if you could support JJ and Georgie during this time. Take a look at their menu.
Thank you for your support and here’s looking forward to a better year. There is light at the end of the tunnel.
Helen Hawes
Club Captain