DC Match Day
In 2022 we switched from a friendly festival to close the DC, to a more competitive match format.
This takes the shape of 1 match day in which the 'regions' play against each other in a league format by age group and gender. So, for example, The North U13 Boys play against the South East U13 Boys and the South West U13 Boys.
Where the centres have roughly the same number of players available, this is not too difficult, as we have an equal number of teams and we can play a round-robin event, either with a single pool or maybe 2 pools. Points are awarded for a win or a draw, same as in every other tournament.
Where there are uneven numbers across the regions, we still want to give all the players more or less the same amount of hockey so the scores are then based on percentages. The fact that some regions have more teams than others, doesn't then have any effect.
The draw we create for the match day is, of course, subject to how many players are available. The coaches will do their best to find out who will be available for their centre, but this hasn't always been made easy by people not replying to their emails in a timely manner.
As a result, this draw is provisional and is subject to changes.
Goalkeeper availability is also a factor and not all centres have as many goalkeepers as others. So, while we will endeavour to have Gks play for their registered centres, sometimes we may need to ask Gks to cover other goals, so that matches can proceed.
In extreme cases, it may happen that no GK is available for a match. This is, of course, regrettable but can't be helped. We ask for your patience and understanding.
My Magic Sports Kit
This short video carries a powerful message for anyone involved in youth sport.
When young players step onto a hockey pitch, they don't suddenly become elite athletes. They are still children who are learning, developing and doing their best. The vast majority of players simply want to enjoy the game, spend time with their friends, challenge themselves and make their parents and coaches proud. They don't need adults shouting instructions from the sidelines, criticising mistakes or putting additional pressure on them. In fact, behaviour like that often has the opposite effect, increasing anxiety and reducing enjoyment.
At Hampshire Hockey, we work hard to create an environment where players feel supported, encouraged and safe to make mistakes. We ask parents and supporters to help us achieve that by focusing on effort rather than outcomes, encouraging all players rather than just their own child, respecting coaches and umpires, and remembering that this is the players' day, not ours.
If we can all do that, we create the kind of environment where young people thrive, develop a lifelong love of hockey and discover the real magic of sport.
by