Meet our newly appointed Ladies 1st XI Captain Katie Richards. As a Cranleigh School alumni, Katie is excited about leading the team for the first time in the Surrey Premier Division this up and coming season.
What do you feel is the biggest challenge facing the team next season?
Having just been promoted it’s the pressure of being a new league, with tougher opposition and performing to a higher standard.
What are you most excited about for next season?
The challenge being in a new league brings along with playing more intense games. It’s a great opportunity for us.
Can you describe your best moment from last season?
When we won the game as a team and goals were scored when the ball touched the sticks of eight different players, those were the best memories. Another highlight was beating London Academicals away! Their home pitch used to be at OCs and we’ve always battled for position one and two in the league.
Will the squad change much and who should we keep an eye out for?
Last year we welcomed several new players onto the team which was great. We’re always open to new recruits and people joining the squad.
What’s the best thing about playing for OCs?
The club atmosphere. There’s such a team approach at the club – there’s no individuals and that’s the same across the whole club. We’re an OC family. We have fun and it’s not too serious, it’s inclusive but we care about winning. From the moment you drive into the club, it feels like home.
When did you start playing hockey?
I was about seven years old at prep school. We used to play on grass and you had to put on football boots to play!
What’s the most important skill you can have as a hockey player?
Your decision making on and off the ball, being able to read the game and work as a team.
Who’s the fastest player in the team?
Our forwards are rapid!
Stay tuned to find out how the Ladies 1s get on this season…