As we welcome two new teams to the OCHC family, Helen Cook gives the website a brief history of “Mid-Surrey Hockey”
Mid Surrey Hockey Club dates back to the late 19th century but the Ladies’ section only came into existence in 1981 when a group of girls, fed up watching their partners playing hockey, decided to have a go themselves! At the time the Club was based at Malden Wanderers Cricket club, New Malden, but with the need to find astroturf, Mid Surrey moved to the University of London Sports Ground in Motspur Park in 1997. However, more turbulent times were ahead a few years later when Fulham FC bought the ground and Mid Surrey were forced to seek pastures new again. At this point the men decided to join forces with NPL-Lensbury, leaving Mid Surrey’s flag to be carried by the ladies alone. It was fortunate that lottery funding meant that a new astro pitch was being built at Tiffin Girls’ School in Kingston, so once again the girls were on the move!
In the ensuing years we struggled with numbers and for the last few seasons only just managed to field two teams every week, thanks to a lot of hard work by the captains. But having no clubhouse, it became increasingly difficult to attract new players against competition from larger neighbouring clubs. We were reluctant to disband completely as we are a close-knit bunch of friends, many of whom have played hockey together for years, so we were delighted that our approach to Helen Hawes last November was received so positively and that we have now merged with Old Cranleighans. Like Maori Vamps, we are a very social crowd and have had some legendary Christmas and end-of-season parties, so we are looking forward to some long nights in the clubhouse, as well as some competitive games on the pitch. Thank you for making us so welcome!!
