In 2017 a resolution was put by clubs to the England Hockey AGM and was strongly supported by the membership to review the way the sport was structured locally. Since then, England Hockey has been consulting widely and developing a proposal for change which was approved by the membership at the AGM in September 2020. Following consultation, an updated proposal now sets out the plan to modernise, streamline and improve the administration of hockey for the benefit of players, clubs and the organising bodies.
The proposals are intended to create: • A fairer structure for clubs and participants to progress within competitions and league structures • Common league rules across the genders and different areas • Improved junior competition structures • Less travel for clubs and players • Common structures and approaches that will make administration easier for clubs and associations • A leaner, more accountable structure that will be easier to improve in the future, aligned to clubs' wishes
The restructuring proposal is available to read in full here and a shorter version is also available here.
A link to the planned area maps and draft adult leagues can be found here
Changes in the West area are being spearheaded by the West Transition Group – reports from these meetings are being circulated to Clubs in Wiltshire. Working groups have also been set up to steer the necessary changes in League structures, Umpiring and Officiating, Competitions and Performance. Please keep an eye on these circulated reports for further meetings and consultations, or please contact us at secretary@wiltshirehockey.co.uk for more information.