Pre-season incoming!
Well, hello there! Hope you’re enjoying some sweaty hockey and lush pub gardens now that summer has finally decided to show up. We’ve been a bit quiet on the comms front but this email should fill you in on what to expect from pre-season including the open trials session, Club Day, CAWHL EOSD and a request from our new Sponsorship Secs, Estelle and Steph.
🗓️ Dates for your diary 🗓️
11th Aug - Trials/Open session (Info below)
15th Aug - CAWHL End of Season Dinner - Buy your ticket here (deadline 31st July)
17th Aug - Back 2 Hockey tournament @ Lee Valley
31st Aug - Club Day (Info below)
7th/14th Sept - Pre-season games
21st Sept - First League games
Trials/Open session
Following on from your feedback, and as proposed by Lizzie at AGM, we are running an open trials session this year on Sunday 11th August 2024. If you missed the AGM, you can read more about the feedback we received and subsequent performance plans for the upcoming season here.
Who is the open session for?
For all new members including B2H players looking to join a team
For all members currently playing in the competitive/social tiers which is for those who play in
Womens’ teams 4-8
Men’s teams 4-9
The trials are for those who want to play in this bracket next season, and for those who are aiming to reach the performance bracket
What about those playing in the 1-3s?
Pre-season for the performance teams and invited players starts this week and will be used to inform team placement so current 1-3s players do not need to attend the open session.
Purpose of trials:
To get an idea of current level and ability to ensure everyone is training and playing at an appropriate level. This is of course subject to change but is mainly to give everyone a fair shot of playing at a level that matches their ability. This is not something to worry about and is a great opportunity to get to know the coaching team, understand what you might need to work on and have a fun day playing hockey. It is essential that if you are available on this day, you attend.
For our coaches to be able to assess and place players new to the club.
For players new to the club to meet the coaching team and other club members.
When/where are the trials?
Sunday 11th August, 10am-6pm @ Lee Valley Hockey and Tennis Centre
Session times and format:
10:00-12:15: Ladies 4-6
13:15-15:30: Mens 4-7
15:45-18:00: Mens 8-9, Ladies 7-8 & B2H
Please ensure you arrive promptly and ready to play.
Each session will incorporate
Sign in, intros and briefing, including new five pillars approach to selection
Warm up
Stick and ball + drills
Small sided games
Sign up
Please complete this Google form by Sunday 4th August so that we have some essential information about you prior to trials day.
What if I can’t attend?
If you can’t attend, please let your Club Captain know (wappinglcc@gmail.com/ wappingmcc@gmail.com) along with any desire to be considered for a different team.
CAWHL EOSD
The summer has seen some incredible hockey thanks to the City and Wharf, Lee Valley leagues, Sonning Tour and mixed friendlies and we’re looking forward to dressing up and celebrating at this years’ end of season dinner at Balls Brothers Minster Court. Deadline for tickets is Wednesday 31st July. Buy yours NOW!
Expect tasty food, a stocked bar, big tunes and fab company to celebrate the best league hockey can offer. It would be great to see as many people there as possible to round off another fun-filled summer of short corners and stick tackles.
Standard tickets cost £65 but should you wish to have the steak main course then you will be charged a £5 supplement fee. There is also the option to purchase raffle tickets to help support Wapping Kidds and be in the chance of winning some great prizes!
RAFFLE PRIZES
💫 DG Corporate: The Boss Headshots session including hair and makeup (worth £385)
💫 £100 Feeney’s bar tab
💫 Salmon Hockey stash
💫 £60 Moretown Belle bar tab
💫 A weeks’ worth of Grubby recipes (worth £50)
💫2 bottles of Taittinger donated by JMAN
💫 Storm Hockey stash
💫 Bottle of Mermaid Gin
… and more!
Get one raffle ticket for the bargain price of £5 or a bumper four for £15
❤️ Huge thanks to our incredibly generous sponsors DG Corporate, Feeney’s, Salmon Hockey, JMAN, Storm Hockey, The Moretown Belle, Grubby and Isle of Wight Distillery ❤️
Club Day - 31st August
Last year was an absolute banger so we’re looking forward to another sunny hockey filled day of fun. Schedule for the day as follows:
11:00: Older Kidds’ masterclass with Matt Bowen
12:30: Mixed tournament for all current/new players who play in the adult leagues
14:30: Lunch and mixed tournament final
15:00: L1 showcase game
16:30: M1 showcase game
18:30: PARTY (Location TBC)
Ossie’s incredibly tasty pizza stall will be along again serving pizzas for all dietary requirements from 12:30-18:00 🍕🍕🍕
Breaking News: Wapping to play shirtless next season…
... this could be the cold reality if we don't get some more partnerships/sponsorships for the 24/25 season!
Just joking, but if you have any connections (sport related and not!) then we'd love to hear from you at wappingsponsorship@gmail.com. Having a personal connection is the best way for us to begin conversations!
Estelle & Steph, Sponsorship Secretaries 24/25
Member discounts:
Check out our Members' area (Password: whc1989) which has all of our available offers, including:
20% off NuSmile dentists
A free Psycle session
Grubby: 50% off + free delivery on 1st box, plus 30% off for the rest of the month
2 weeks free trial of El Tab app giving members 4 free drinks in London nightly
10% off all beers at Tap East
Wapping Kidds needs you
Since you’re all missing hockey Saturdays, now is the perfect time to get involved with Kidds! At JO every Friday evening (6:00-7:30pm) and Saturday morning (9:30-11:00am) we are blessed with the most incredible juniors who absolutely love hockey and are now holding their own against some of the most established clubs in London.
The sessions are run by our fabulous lead coaches but we need some extra helpers to make the most of the junior’s potential.
Who do we need?
On Friday nights, our senior school group have skills that would challenge most adults at the club and having a few technically sharp players executing drills, focusing attention and challenging players works really well. So if you’ve got some skills, can set an example for how to play and train, and would like to inspire the next generation, this session’s for you.
On Saturday mornings our junior school children love hockey but also love a chat. At these sessions having a few helpers with a good sense of humour assisting with focus and explaining techniques and drills in a warm and encouraging way is vital. So if you like hockey based fun and excellent chat, this session’s for you.
At our summer camps (over the summer holiday) we offer paid opportunities for coaches and coaching assistants, paying £20/h for assistant coaches and £40/h for lead coaches (Level 2 qualification or equivalent).
The broad plan, which is still subject to approval, will be to run the camps over from 29 July to 15 August, Monday-Thursday, 9-12. They'll be split into camps for the more experienced players and taster/try out sessions, so hopefully both safer and more fun to run.
At this stage, we are just trying to gauge interest. Please do pass this information on to anyone else who you think may be interested. We would prefer some coaching experience, and all coaches will need an up to date England Hockey DBS check, but we can get that done ahead of the sessions if needed.
If you’re interested in any of the above, please reach out to Sandy (wappingkidds@gmail.com), who’ll pop you on the Kidds coaches WhatsApp group, sort your DBS, and get you involved at a session soon.
How else can I help?
We’re looking to recruit more juniors, especially girls, so anything you can do to spread the word about our Kidds’ sessions in local community/school/parent groups would really help.
We have two flyers which can be downloaded and shared via WhatsApp or email. The general ‘Kidds’ flyer is here and the Kidds’ ‘goalkeeping taster sessions’ flyer is here.
More old guys needed
We’ve got a cracking line up of Wapping legends for the 23rd June LV 10th anniversary game but could do with a few more men, so if you played for Wapping in 2014 and your back/knees/spouse allows you some sort of movement please complete this form and join in the fun. Please note that anyone can attend the event but you will need to have played at Wapping in 2014 to be eligible for the game.
We’re also in need of an umpire for this too.
Dates for your Diary
16/06: Men’s Saturday Social League commences
23/06: LV 10 Year Anniversary ‘team of 2014’ game (sign up here)
06/07: Kidds’ End of Season @ Wapping Tavern (12:00-14:00pm)
w/c 29/07: Performance teams pre-season training begins
w/c 12/08: Pre-season training for all teams
11/08: Trials/open session (coach facilitated sessions for current and prospective players)
17/08: Back2Hockey Tournament @ LV
17/08, 24/08: Pre-season games (provisional)
31/08: Club Day (11am-6pm @ LV followed by social)
07/09, 14/09: Pre-season games (provisional)
21/09: First league games for all (WEHL conference and London League)
REMINDER: Umpire and coaching Opportunities
umpire Development
Thanks to our three Umpire Development Officers (UDOs) we have a fab summer development program to help new umpires get started and existing umpires up-skill. If you’ve thought about trying umpiring now is the time to give it a go as Wapping will not only pay for your umpire course but also arrange two practice games with experienced (and very lovely) UDOs, assisted by our brand new radio sets to ensure you’re fully supported. It’s a fantastic opportunity so please reach out to VCC, Alex Corrie (wappingvcc@gmail.com), if interested.
Get into coaching
As well as our umpiring program, we have a summer development program for anyone keen to get into coaching.
Reach out to VCP, Lizzie, or Kidds’ Chair, Amy, to find out how to get started and the resources available (including our excellent Head Coach, Matt).
Member discounts:
Check out our Members' area (Password: whc1989) which has all of our available offers, including:
20% off NuSmile dentists
A free Psycle session
Grubby: 50% off + free delivery on 1st box, plus 30% off for the rest of the month
2 weeks free trial of El Tab app giving members 4 free drinks in London nightly
20% off Sharp Movement
10% off all beers at Tap East
WhatsApp?
Thanks to everyone who’s put themselves forward for a role on next year’s committee. The first voting round has been emailed to all members so please check your emails and get voting. This Back Post contains a call for an O40s team, ‘team of 2014’, and Sonning Festival ladies, info on our kit amnesty and move to ‘WhatsApp communities’, and some updated dates for your diary (note that Club Day has changed!).
[Updated] Dates for your Diary
23/06: LV 10 Year Anniversary ‘team of 2014’ game (sign up below)
w/c 28/07: Performance teams pre-season training begins
w/c 04/08: Pre-season training for all teams
UPDATED: 11/08: Trials/open session (coach facilitated sessions for current and prospective players)
17/08, 24/08: Pre-season games (provisional)
UPDATED: 31/08: Club Day (11am-6pm @ LV followed by social)
07/09, 14/09: Pre-season games (provisional)
CONFIRMED: 21/09: First league games for all (WEHL conference and London League)
Join Wapping’s O40 group and ‘team of 2014’
On the 23rd June 2024 Lee Valley Hockey and Tennis Centre are marking the 10th Anniversary of the centre’s opening with a celebratory event. They’ve asked a Wapping “team of 2014” to play against one from East London (or it may now be a mini tournament with 20min games against Crostyx and Waltham Forest too. Details TBC).
If you would like to join in the fun please complete this form. Please note that anyone can attend the event but you will need to have played at Wapping in 2014 to be eligible for the game.
On a related note, Jane Blake of Old Loughts reached out enquiring about Wapping’s over 40s for some friendly mixed games/tournaments. If you’re interested in being looped in please reach out to Roche (wappingremains@gmail.com) who is liaising.
Ladies listen up!! Tour alert!
The mixed Pirates team are going on tour and you don’t want to be missing out. A big group of us will be taking on Sonning in July, but we need to even the playing field - so we’re currently asking specifically for more girls to join us!
Overview
Sonning Hockey Festival 2024: Friday 5th - Sunday 7th July. 11-a-side full pitch mixed hockey tournament. More details: https://www.sonninghockeyfestival.co.uk/
What is it?
Grass & Astro games
Semi-competitive or Social levels
Teams are capped at max. 25 players
Sonning Toybox fancy dress theme
Friday night is Disco night w/ DJ ‘Bomber’ Harris
Live music Saturday night
Camping
The £40 price will include:
Generous welcome drinks gift
Entrance wrist bands
Disco Friday night
Fancy dress party!
Live Band Saturday night
Free camping, free parking
Full marquee and bar!
Onsite facilities
..and of course plenty of hockey!"
How to sign up?
Either email wappinghcpirates@gmail.com or join the Pirates’ WhatsApp group
Kit amnesty
Having done a club wide collection of kit from captains, we’re currently missing a huge number of shirts which will need replacing before September if not found. The cost to replace those currently unaccounted for is £9,960 which could lead to increased membership fees. Please check all your cupboards, sports bags, washing baskets, back of the sofa etc and return any shirts, balls, masks or other kit you may have to either your captain, the JO storeroom or the LV lockers before the 6th of June. If you could also pop a message in your previous season’s team WhatsApp in case any previous Wappers have any lying about.
Move to WhatsApp community
Very shortly we’ll be setting up a Wapping ‘community’ on WhatApp (thanks to Doug Shipton for flagging and initiating this)
Why?
It should help us streamline our comms and improve visibility around what’s happening at the club and things you can get involved with. It should also make using WhatsApp for Wapping stuff less painful as all the chats you’re a member of will be together. You can read more about WhatsApp communities here but once up and running we’re hoping all club members will be a part of the community. At this point we’ll retire the ‘news and updates’ group and use the announcements functionality instead. There’ll be a period of transition whilst we work out how best to use it so please bear with us as we do so.
CAWHL results
Playing in the City and Wharf league but unsure how your team is faring? Check out the results page here: https://www.wappinghockey.club/cawhl-fixtures-results
REMINDER: Umpire and coaching Opportunities
umpire Development
Thanks to our three Umpire Development Officers (UDOs) we have a fab summer development program to help new umpires get started and existing umpires up-skill. If you’ve thought about trying umpiring now is the time to give it a go as Wapping will not only pay for your umpire course but also arrange two practice games with experienced (and very lovely) UDOs, assisted by our brand new radio sets to ensure you’re fully supported. It’s a fantastic opportunity so please reach out to VCC, Alex Corrie (wappingvcc@gmail.com), if interested.
Get into coaching
As well as our umpiring program, we have a summer development program for anyone keen to get into coaching.
Reach out to VCP, Lizzie, or Kidds’ Chair, Amy, to find out how to get started and the resources available (including our excellent Head Coach, Matt).
Member discounts:
Check out our Members' area (Password: whc1989) which has all of our available offers, including:
20% off NuSmile dentists
A free Psycle session
Grubby: 50% off + free delivery on 1st box, plus 30% off for the rest of the month
2 weeks free trial of El Tab app giving members 4 free drinks in London nightly
20% off Sharp Movement
10% off all beers at Tap East
Discounted club trip to Leyton Orient on February 13th 2024
AGM Updates, Elections and Summer Opportunities
Thanks to everyone who made Monday’s AGM. If you missed it the reports and slide decks can be found here. I would strongly recommend Lizzie’s performance report to understand the work happening in the background this year and what it means for the upcoming season.
Secondly a massive thanks to everyone who’s volunteered across the club this season, especially the outgoing committee members. Nominations for next year’s committee open on Monday and I would encourage everyone to take a look at the roles below and think about joining the crew.
Dates for your Diary
23/06: LV 10 Year Anniversary ‘team of 2014’ game (info and sign up below)
w/c 28/07: Performance teams pre-season training begins
w/c 04/08: Pre-season training for all teams
10/08 & 17/08: Trials and open sessions (coach facilitated sessions for current and prospective players)
24/08: Club Day (11am-6pm @ LV followed by social)
31/08, 07/09, 14/09: Pre-season games (provisional)
14/09, 21/09: First league games (provisional)
Wapping needs you!
One of the key areas highlighted at the AGM is the need for more coaches and players for the 2024/25 season.
As VCP, Lizzie, said, our coaches have been fantastic this season, but we need more, and we need to better support those we do have. Having support from the Mens 1s, Ladies 1s and some dedicated player coaches has enabled us to all train this year, but every team should have their own dedicated coach and there’s been a lot of work to try and make that happen.
In terms of support and development, we need to make Wapping a better place to coach and, at the AGM, a motion was approved to add a Coach Development Officer to our committee. It is a facilitation role that will be supported by the VCP and Head Coach so you do not need to be a coach to apply. If you’re interested in hearing more please reach out to Lizzie to chat.
In terms of players, every year it’s important we recruit at least enough players to fill gaps left by departing members. Membership is the club’s largest revenue stream and ensuring stability/slight growth in this area is essential to covering our costs.
Following a handful of demotions, we’re facing increased divisions between teams which could be detrimental to the club longer term. As gaps widen, movement up and down teams becomes more difficult. Players may struggle when pulled up or leave the club if dropped down, so one of the club’s aims for next season is to reduce gaps between teams, especially between the 1s and 2s.
what does that mean?
It means the club’s current focus is on recruiting coaches (of all levels), performance end players (1s-3s), and increasing the number of mens players slightly, to help bolster their availability.
So what can I do to help?
Share the recruitment social media posts. The wider our net, the more likely we are to catch the people we need.
Read the email you’ll be receiving regarding the new referral schemes, and reach out to your networks. This year we’re trialling a recruitment drive assisted by you - on the assumption that our collective reach will be far greater than that of just the committee 🫶
Summer Opportunities
umpire Development
Thanks to our three Umpire Development Officers (UDOs) we have a fab summer development program to help new umpires get started and existing umpires up-skill. If you’ve thought about trying umpiring now is the time to give it a go as Wapping will not only pay for your umpire course but also arrange two practice games with experienced (and very lovely) UDOs, assisted by our brand new radio sets to ensure you’re fully supported. It’s a fantastic opportunity so please reach out to VCC, Alex Corrie (wappingvcc@gmail.com), if interested.
Why umpire?
The better the quality of umpires we as a club provide to ANY level of match, the greater the enjoyment factor of those playing it. Thus the better the environment around the pitch, at teas etc.
Knowing the rules (heaven forbid…) and how they should be applied, makes you a better player.
It’s a great way to meet more people across the club.
Pocket a min of £15 per game umpired.
Get into coaching
As well as our umpiring program, we have a summer development program for anyone keen to get into coaching.
With weekly Back2Hockey sessions, bi-weekly Kidds’ sessions and paid summer camp opportunities it’s a perfect time to get involved.
Reach out to VCP, Lizzie, or Kidds’ Chair, Amy, to find out how to get started and the resources available (including our excellent Head Coach, Matt).
2024/25 Elections
The club is managed by the Executive (Exec) and Committee—the full list of positions is below. We encourage as many people as possible to get involved with running the club, whether it's your first season or tenth. If you have questions about any of the roles, please get in touch with a member of the Exec or Committee.
For nominations to the Exec, we encourage people to send in a short manifesto. Exec members pay zero-rate subs, while Committee members pay a concession rate.
Nominations in the first round of elections for Exec and Committee roles, excluding Captains, can be sent until Sunday 19th May at 9pm.
Nominations must be seconded by one other WHC member. To put yourself forward for a role, please email wappingelections@gmail.com confirming your interest and copy in the member seconding you. Positions can be shared by two members, even if that's not specifically highlighted below. Following AGM, Committee roles that are shared will also share the concession rate discount - you will not both get the full concession rate.
Once nominations close on 19th May, voting will be open to all members on Monday 20th May until Sunday 26th May at 9pm. Results will be announced on Monday 27th May and a second round will commence to fill any vacancies and open for Captains' nominations, until Sunday 9th June.
Club positions
Election Timetable
10 years at Lee Valley
On the 23rd June 2024 the team at Lee Valley Hockey and Tennis Centre will be marking the 10th Anniversary of the centre’s opening with a celebratory event. They have asked a Wapping “team of 2014” to play against one from East London at 1pm on pitch 1.
If you would like to join in the fun please complete this form.
Please note that anyone can attend the event but you will need to have played at Wapping in 2014 to be eligible for the game.
EOSD updates
Thanks again to Hannah and Jez for organising what was an absolutely fantastic End of Season Dinner. Hopefully everyone has just about recovered.
If you missed out on the fun, or want to relive it, be sure to check out the photos from the event and the awards presentation (complete with notes on all the worthy winners).
Please note that in addition to the Honorary Vice-President nominations made by the Exec (Vicki Wonders, Barbara Lo Giudice and Phil O’Hagan), members at the AGM also voted to approve Hon VP status for previous club members, Richard Musto, Greg Edmunds and Rachel ‘Hoff’ Edmunds. Nominations thanks to Iain Davidson.
Final league standings
Member discounts:
Check out our Members' area (Password: whc1989) which has all of our available offers, including:
20% off NuSmile dentists
A free Psycle session
Grubby: 50% off + free delivery on 1st box, plus 30% off for the rest of the month
2 weeks free trial of El Tab app giving members 4 free drinks in London nightly
20% off Sharp Movement
10% off all beers at Tap East
Discounted club trip to Leyton Orient on February 13th 2024
That’s a wrap
And just like that we have come to the end of the 2023/24 hockey season, a huge congrats to the L1, L6 and M8 who secured promotion (more detail below) and a massive thanks to all players, coaches, umpires, volunteers and supporters who contributed to the club this year. We can’t wait to celebrate with the whole club at the End of Season Dinner on Saturday.
Final league results
A huge congrats to the Ladies 1, Ladies 6 and Mens 8 who secured promotion for next season.
Only dropping 5 points all season, the Mens 8 dominated Div 6 East with highlights including a 11-1 win over East London 8 and an 8-1 win over THD.
The Ladies 6s similarly dominated Div 6 East with a huge 58 points. Winning 19/20 matches the L6 were unbeaten all season and achieved a positive goal difference of 92! Regularly scoring 5+ goals, highlights included an 11-1 win against THD and a 9-0 win against Southgate.
Finally, the L1 remained top of the league all season, battling until the end with Surbiton and Barnes to win London Prem by 1 goal (eek) following a 5-2 win over Hampstead & Westminster. This has earned the L1 promotion to national league (East Conference) for the first time in Wapping’s history.
Last week in a line: WLDDLWWLLWWWWL
EOSD AFTERS
As if you couldn’t get more excited for Saturday, our cracking social squad have secured an after party at Kapture (right next door to the venue) so the fun and dancing can continue until 2am. What does this mean? Pace yourself, people, and make the most of what will be an epic evening.
Reminder: Dinner is being served at 7pm sharp so all teams must arrive by 6:30 at the very latest.
AGM
Our Annual General Meeting (AGM) will be held on Monday 29th April at 7pm. This year's AGM will be online, and an agenda will be circulated in due course. Google Meet link here
The AGM is an opportunity to review and discuss the 2023/24 season, and set out plans for next season.
Any resolutions or motions for the AGM should be submitted to the Secretary account no less than 7 days before the meeting (by 22nd April). Any proposed changes to the Constitution or Rules should be sent no less than 14 days before (by 15th April). Under-18s can attend, but not vote.
AGM will:
Hear and vote on reports from the Chairs and other Executive members.
Hear and vote on reports of any sub-committees and their recommendations.
Consider and pass motions from members.
Set out a plan for elections.
We need 15% of the club to be present for the AGM to run, so all the more reason to attend. Any questions or queries, please get in touch with the Secretary account, or Chair Helen Rogers.
IN case you still haven’t done ‘em…
Wapping corporate league sign up. As mentioned last week, all Wapping members are invited to sign up to be part of a Wapping team taking part in the City and Wharf Summer league. This year we will have 4 Wapping teams; Wapping Mutineers, Wapping Highwaymen, Wapping Husseys and Wapping Privateers! Please use this form to sign up.
Don’t forget to get your EOS raffle tickets to be in with the chance of winning a stunning Simon Wright gold and natural fancy cognac diamond bracelet. Even if you can’t attend the End of Season Dinner you can still be in with a chance to win, so share that link with all your pals and get your tickets now!
All team kit must be handed back at the end of the season so if you’ve got any shirts, balls or masks lying around, make sure you get them back to your captains this week. Any items lost will need replacing from your squad kitty, which means less cash for EOS drinks!
Still thinking about umpiring? Well good news! Now is the time to give it a go as CAWHL is the perfect opportunity for some easy going first games. Wapping can book and pay for your online level 1 umpiring course in exchange for booking in your first two CAWHL games. Reach out to Rogers if interested.
Member discounts:
Check out our Members' area (Password: whc1989) which has all of our available offers, including:
20% off NuSmile dentists
A free Psycle session
Grubby: 50% off + free delivery on 1st box, plus 30% off for the rest of the month
2 weeks free trial of El Tab app giving members 4 free drinks in London nightly
20% off Sharp Movement
10% off all beers at Tap East
Discounted club trip to Leyton Orient on February 13th 2024
The Final Countdown
As the season comes to a close (sad), there are still some big matches to play for teams facing regulation and the L1 whose fight for promotion has come down to the last game of the season. Read on as we look ahead to more hockey over the summer!
EOSD award nominations - deadline 8th April
Hopefully everyone has purchased their ticket and is excited for EOSD on Saturday 20th April. It is time to get club-wide award nominations for the season. Each section is optional but try to submit as many as possible to give the Exec a full picture. Please submit nominations via the link below by Monday 8th April.
Submission link: https://forms.gle/v2PugNb3Jurino7f6
CAWHL player sign up
It's that time of year again where we invite you all to sign up to be part of a Wapping team taking part in the City and Wharf Summer league. This year we will have 4 Wapping teams; Wapping Mutineers, Wapping Highwaymen, Wapping Husseys and Wapping Privateers!
Please use this form to sign up for a summer of hockey fun! 🏑☀🍻
https://forms.gle/cdZrTtPsN7N6Gjpk9
Back to hockey is back
Back to hockey will be returning every Thursday from 7-8:30pm from the 25th April with the amazing Kiran as coach at John Orwell Sports Centre. It’s a great session to signpost friends and family to get them back into hockey. Sticks and shinpads will be provided if needed!
A Few reminders:
Don’t forget to get your EOS raffle tickets to be in with the chance of winning a stunning Simon Wright gold and natural fancy cognac diamond bracelet. Even if you can’t attend the End of Season Dinner you can still be in with a chance to win, so share that link with all your pals and get your tickets now!
All team kit must be handed back at the end of the season so if you’ve got any shirts, balls or masks lying around, make sure you get them back to your captains this week. Any items lost will need replacing from your squad kitty, which means less cash for EOS drinks!
Still thinking about umpiring? Well good news! Now is the time to give it a go as CAWHL is the perfect opportunity for some easy going first games. Wapping can book and pay for your online level 1 umpiring course in exchange for booking in your first two CAWHL games. Reach out to Rogers if interested.
As it stands:
Last week in a line: WLDDLWWLLWWWWL
Fixtures this week:
Member discounts:
Check out our Members' area (Password: whc1989) which has all of our available offers, including:
20% off NuSmile dentists
A free Psycle session
Grubby: 50% off + free delivery on 1st box, plus 30% off for the rest of the month
2 weeks free trial of El Tab app giving members 4 free drinks in London nightly
20% off Sharp Movement
10% off all beers at Tap East
Discounted club trip to Leyton Orient on February 13th 2024
Coach Wapping
Last weekend saw a dominant 5-0 win for the L1 as they edge nearer to promotion, good wins for the M4 (3-1) and L7 (2-1) and a 6-1 win for the L6 who continue to smash it.
This weekend there are some big matches at Lee Valley for the L1 in their fight for promotion (14:30) and a derby for the M1 v East London at 11:30. There is also an East London derby for the L6 at 2pm in John Orwell - come down and support these games if you can!
Coaching opportunities
Hopefully you have already seen the fab instagram reel the press team put out this week about coaching opportunities for the 2024/5 season (if not, make sure you give @wappinghc a follow!).
One of the club’s main focuses for next season is improving the support and development of our coaching team, so please share our ‘Opportunities’ page with any coaches (or experienced players interested in coaching) you know - it’s a great opportunity to make an impact and help shape the future of the club.
Alternatively, if you’ve thought about coaching, we are running coaching development over summer to train up new coaches for anyone who would like to give it a go. If you’re interested, send Lizzie an email (wappingvcp@gmail.com).
Quick reminders
The deadline to buy your End of Season Dinner tickets is the 31st March, buy them from the Wapping shop - make sure you don’t miss out. Make sure you buy your raffle tickets whilst you're there, to be in with a chance to win a Simon Wright diamond bracelet.
Please fill in the anonymised club-wide coaching feedback form here
If your company would like to sign up to the city and wharf hockey league please email cityandwharfhockeyleague@gmail.com
Kidds’ updates
It’s been a busy end to the season for our Kidds’ teams, with lots of fixtures and tournaments in the last weeks with some great hockey on show to finish up with.
Last weekend the U8s were dominant at Honor Oak, with the A team winning 5 out of 7 matches and the B team winning 3 out of 6, with great spirits in the pouring rain. A special mention to Benjamin, who at 4 years old is our youngest ever Wapping player!
The U10 boys had a very damp afternoon in Catford. Wapping B had a solid afternoon with 2 wins and 1 draw in the group to come 2nd. They then went on to with the final 2-1, a shout out goes to Arthur for his sensational goalkeeping. Wapping A also had a great afternoon including a dominant performance in their final match. The U10 also had a strong weekend, finishing 5th in their tournament.
The U12 boys also had a good win at their cup tournament, with 2 draws and 4 narrow losses. Meanwhile the U14 girls have gone from strength to strength, with a super 3-1 win at Brom Becks a recent update.
A huge thank you to all the parents, kids, coaches, umpires and managers for trekking to various (and sometimes multiple) locations and for all those admin-ing behind the scenes!
As it stands:
Last week in a line: LDLWDLLWLLLLWW
Fixtures this week:
Member discounts:
Check out our Members' area (Password: whc1989) which has all of our available offers, including:
20% off NuSmile dentists
A free Psycle session
Grubby: 50% off + free delivery on 1st box, plus 30% off for the rest of the month
2 weeks free trial of El Tab app giving members 4 free drinks in London nightly
20% off Sharp Movement
10% off all beers at Tap East
Discounted club trip to Leyton Orient on February 13th 2024
Don’t miss out!
With only a few games left the L1 and L5 have must win matches in their pushes for promotion and there is a tasty M7 derby against East London 6. Looking forward to the end of the season there’s a link to EOSD tickets, a chance to give feedback on coaching and a shoutout to the City and Wharf Hockey League that will kick off in April.
End of Season Dinner tickets
A note that End of Season Dinner tickets are now for sale on the Wapping webshop here. Early birds of the club have already snapped up the discounted tickets, so make sure you get your hands on one (and a raffle ticket to be in with a chance to win a piece of Simon Wright Jewellery) before they sell out or it reaches the deadline - 31st March.
Event details below:
Date: Saturday 20th April
Location: The Great Hall, Leyton - 1A Adelaide Road, London, E10 5NN
Time: 6pm arrival for a 7pm start
Dresscode: Black Tie
Dinner: 3 course Indian meal
Coaching feedback
With only a few weeks left of the 23/24 Season, the Exec are looking to the horizon and the first signs of 24/25. No rest for the wicked 😉
To help us make informed decisions, please can you fill out our anonymised player feedback form:
https://forms.gle/zf9xBUQeD97KzvKu7
Any player from any team can submit. The more thoughts and opinions we can get the better! So please share with your teams!
The Passing of the Sponsorship baton
As the season nears its end, I’m sad to say it’s likely we’ll be saying a (hopefully temporary) goodbye to one of our most impactful volunteers, Irini Kounoupias. Irini only joined Wapping a couple of years ago, having never played before, but in her time has not only become a cracking ladies and mixed player but also one of our most dedicated, and much loved, volunteers.
Irini took on the revived role of Sponsorship Sec and has knocked fundraising out of the park. I could wax lyrical about her efforts all day but a small roundup of some of her hard work, and testament to her efforts, is below.
Secured a £4k+ grant from Sport England to help take our junior goalkeepers to the next level
Won Wapping Kidds a tidy £1k from Tesco
Secured funding for loadsa new balls and the kit room refurb (thanks to Swike and Chambers)
Along with our main Kit Sec, Rob, helped secure a fab partnership with Salmon hockey who provided shirts for our dev team
Nurtured our existing relationships with much loved sponsors Simon Wright, Feeneys and The Moretown Belle.
Set up two fab social partnerships with Leyton Orient and El Tab
And brought in a whole lot of dosh. Money without which we wouldn’t have been able to do half as much as we have this year.
In true Irini style, she has prepared a thorough handover, including pitch deck and templates, and is ‘happy to offer loads of support’ for whoever can take this role on, so if you’d like to get involved or have a chat through what being 'Wapping’s Sponsorship Sec’ might entail, please drop her an email.
The role in brief:
sourcing new sponsors
agreeing deals and making sure all the the commitments are upheld
acting as a point of contact and promoting them over the season
applying for grants
it’d suit a people-person especially someone with marketing/sales background but not essential
City and Wharf Hockey League
If you’re already devastated about hockey coming to an end then hopefully the first Back Post notice about the CAWHL can ease that pain. For those who didn’t play last year, the City and Wharf Hockey league (CAWHL) is an East London mixed social hockey league that Wapping run every summer to raise funds for club initiatives like Back2Hockey which help towards our mission of access and inclusion. It runs from April to August, is loads of fun, a great way to keep fit over the summer, and culminates in a fantastic end of season social.
Games are held at the John Orwell Sports Centre (Wapping, E1W 2QD) and the Mile End Leisure Centre (Bow, E3 4HL). Teams are a combination of corporate London hockey teams and social collectives!
If you/your company are thinking about entering a mixed hockey team please email cityandwharfhockeyleague@gmail.com for more info. The more the merrier!
More details to follow on how to get involved if you’re not part of a corporate team, follow @citywharfhockey on Instagram to be the first to hear any news.
As it stands:
Last week in a line: LLLLLWDWDDDLWLDWL
Fixtures this week:
Member discounts:
Check out our Members' area (Password: whc1989) which has all of our available offers, including:
20% off NuSmile dentists
A free Psycle session
Grubby: 50% off + free delivery on 1st box, plus 30% off for the rest of the month
2 weeks free trial of El Tab app giving members 4 free drinks in London nightly
20% off Sharp Movement
10% off all beers at Tap East
Discounted club trip to Leyton Orient on February 13th 2024
International Women’s Day
A quick note to say a huge congratulations to the Ladies 6s and Mens 8s who both secured promotion last week! There are still multiple teams fighting in promotion and relegation battles so make sure to come down and support at Lee Valley and John Orwell when you can.
International Women’s Day
As it’s International Women’s Day we would like to spend most of this Back Post celebrating 10 amazing women in the club who have been nominated by various club members for all of their fab work.
Tara Feeney - The only adult team female coach in the club, Tara, despite injury, is coaching and captaining the L5s like a hero. Not only is she an exceptionally good coach who understands the needs of her players and team, she works with other captains and coaches to help and assist other ladies' teams. There's no better woman to lead the charge for female coaching.
Helen Rogers - with a huge number of nominations, of course no club is complete without our Club Chair Rogers on this list. Applauded for her inspiring ambition and creativity, hard graft, warmth, grace, diplomacy, and for being an absolute boss, no amount of adjectives could capture the amazing work Rogers does on and off the hockey pitch at Wapping. A huge inspiration to women across the club.
Jenna Maclaren - particularly for the Strong Girls' Group that Jenna masterminded over the summer, completely off her own back. This has helped to create a community on the ladies' side from the 1s-7s both out of and during the season. And as someone who cares not only for the performance and integration of the higher teams, but inclusivity in the lower teams, the effort she puts in is absolutely exceptional.
Benji Avro - LCC and club legend, Benji is an inspiration week on week. ‘Whenever I want to boss a situation I think “What would Benji do”’. Her incredible capacity for strategic thought, calm level headedness and clarity in the messiest of situations brings inner calm and reassurance at the most trying times. She is a voice of reason, a social VIBE, her personal style is 🔥 and is someone who makes the most, and best, of every day, always striving for better but with grace and ease. Be more Benji.
Lizzie Reffell - an absolute icon of the Ladies 7s, Lizzie has stepped up as vice-captain this year and done such a fantastic job on and off the hockey pitch. Carrying out team admin, always turning up to socials and encouraging teammates - Lizzie is absolutely integral to the L7. Always looking to improve her game, on top of this Lizzie is a frequent Back to Hockey attendee where she has just as much as a positive impact on those at training.
Babs Lo Giudice - Wapping stalwart and Italian stallion Babs is the glue in every team she plays in. Babs keeps everyone positive and motivated, and is always the loudest voice cheering on her teammates in games and at training. She encourages us to work together and enjoy hockey, as well as making sure everyone feels part of the team.
Pippa Jones - as well as supporting countless children as a therapist, Pippa has brought her expertise into the L1, supporting and helping the team in countless ways with her empathy and support as the girls push for promotion. It goes without saying that Pippa is also an incredible hockey player and an inspiration for any aspiring forward in the club, scoring goals, skilling every defender in London Prem and always working hard for the team <3
Jane O-Rourke - As well as being a new umpire, Jane is single-handedly making sure we have umpires every week to facilitate games. She spends hours ensuring slots are filled, and also works with the Kidds and UDOs to develop new umpires. Umpires are something we all take for granted, and without a dedicated ULO none of us would be able to play - thank you Jane!
Gigi Barbuto - For being an incredible friend on and off the pitch, a solid team mate and even greater friend who always has her teammates’ backs. She makes everyone in the team feel included and always makes training a brighter place. Gigi is a strong woman who always build others up, hyping up her teammates and encouraging them non-stop. We need more Gigis in this world!
Lizzie Salmon - even the darkest of training days can be brightened by Lizzie, the badger, who is an absolute ray of sunshine. Never have I seen someone take so much joy from playing hockey, and spread so much joy to others whilst running around with a stick and ball. On top of this, Lizzie has driven Wapping forward with some amazing work as head of performance, showing great emotional intelligence, strategic thinking and creativity.
End of Season Dinner tickets
A note that End of Season Dinner tickets are now for sale on the Wapping webshop here. Early birds of the club have already snapped up the discounted tickets, so make sure you get your hands on one before they sell out or it reaches the deadline - 31st March. Event details below:
Date: Saturday 20th April
Location: The Great Hall, Leyton - 1A Adelaide Road, London, E10 5NN
Time: 6pm arrival for a 7pm start
Dresscode: Black Tie
Dinner: 3 course Indian meal
Your chance to win!
Simon Wright, the club's jeweller to the stars (that's all of you!), has made this stunning gold and natural fancy cognac diamond bracelet for us to raffle at the End of Season Dinner. Last year he contributed a hockey stick themed tie clip which generated lots of envious excitement (and funds for the club), so this year he's decided to make something for the ladies. Get your raffle tickets here or as an add-on when buying your dinner ticket. All raffle ticket purchasers welcome so feel free to share with all your pals.
L1/M1 fundraiser
A huge thank you to everyone who came to the L1/M1 fundraiser last Saturday at The Dog. The total raised is still TBC but thank you to all who entered the quiz, bought a bucket hat or raffle tickets. Congratulations to the M8 who topped off their promotion party with a quiz win.
For those who didn’t manage to grab a Wapping bucket hat, the L1 will be down at JO on Saturday to sell bucket hats to those who would like one ahead of festival season!
As it stands:
Last week in a line: LWLDLDLWLLDDDLWWL
Fixtures this week:
Member discounts:
Check out our Members' area (Password: whc1989) which has all of our available offers, including:
20% off NuSmile dentists
A free Psycle session
Grubby: 50% off + free delivery on 1st box, plus 30% off for the rest of the month
2 weeks free trial of El Tab app giving members 4 free drinks in London nightly
20% off Sharp Movement
10% off all beers at Tap East
Discounted club trip to Leyton Orient on February 13th 2024
Let’s get quizzical
This weekend there are four (!) East London derbies for the M4, M9, L3 and L7 and a hugely important game for the L1 against second in the league Barnes. Read ahead for information about the M1/L1 fundraiser taking place tomorrow and some exciting sponsor updates.
M1/L1 fundraiser social
Join us tomorrow for the annual club M1/L1 fundraiser at The Dog. It's guaranteed to be loads of fun and will feature a quiz, mini-games and a raffle. Plus, the unveiling of the much anticipated club bucket hats which will be available for purchase 🫶🏻
Top prizes include:
💫 Bar tabs at The Dog
💫 A piece of Simon Wright bespoke jewellery
💫 Records from Finders Keepers Records
💫 Plenty of hockey stash from the likes of Crow, Array and more
💫 Class packs from Metabolic and Orangetheory
💫 Other swag including trainers, vouchers for Crate Brewery and much more
The fundraiser is taking place at The Dog (E1 1LX) with drinks from 7pm and quiz kick-off at 8pm.
If you’re unable to make the event, or would like to buy your raffle tickets in advance, you can buy strips of raffle tickets here.
❤️ Huge thanks to all our generous donors ❤️
Tesco competition update
Thank you to everyone who voted in the Tesco blue token competition, Wapping came second in East London, receiving £1,000 towards the Wapping Kidds foundation which will go a long way in supporting all the great work that is happening with Wapping Kidds already.
Sponsor Alert: Savills Wapping
Thank you to our latest sponsor signing, Savills Wapping, who will be supporting the M5 next season. As always, showing them some love can help the club out down the line so for any real estate needs be sure to check them out.
Sponsor notice: Sharp Movement
A reminder, particularly with marathon season coming up, that Sharp Movement, the sports massage and injury clinic offers 10% off treatment and 10% club kickback when you tell them you are a Wapping member. A former ironwoman pro athlete has joined their team so for endurance injuries especially go and check them out!
As it stands:
Last week in a line: DLWLWLWLLWLWWWW
Fixtures this week:
Member discounts:
Check out our Members' area (Password: whc1989) which has all of our available offers, including:
20% off NuSmile dentists
A free Psycle session
Grubby: 50% off + free delivery on 1st box, plus 30% off for the rest of the month
2 weeks free trial of El Tab app giving members 4 free drinks in London nightly
20% off Sharp Movement
10% off all beers at Tap East
Discounted club trip to Leyton Orient on February 13th 2024
Back in action
I hope everyone had some effective rest and recovery over slip week as this weekend all teams are back in action as the final quarter of the season begins. Matches include a M5 v M6 derby and some crunchy matches against rivals THD and East London.
M1/L1 fundraiser
Next week the M1/L1 quiz and raffle fundraiser will be taking place at The Dog in Whitechapel (E1 1LX). Building on last year’s success this year’s fundraiser will be bigger and better with a quiz, raffle and mini-games to keep you entertained for the evening. Tickets will cost £5 per person and there will be the chance to buy raffle tickets on the night. It’s a great event to bring family and friends to and a chance to prove your team is the smartest at Wapping!
Ben’s London Marathon
Ben Leppard from the M6 is running the London Marathon on Sunday 21st April in aid of RNLI. If you would like to support to Ben’s marathon effort you can donate via the link below:
Kidds results!
Some recent updates from the Kidds teams who are having fantastic seasons!
U12B A: 2 wins, 2 draws, 9 goals for, only 2 goals against
U12B B: 2 wins, 2 losses, including some great team goals
U12G: Won 2-1, Lost 1-2 against Brom Becks
U10G: 4 wins, 1 draw
U10B: 2 wins, 1 draw, scoring 8 goals, only conceded 2
As it stands:
Last week in a line: LLLLLLLWLDLLWWWL
Fixtures this week:
Member discounts:
Check out our Members' area (Password: whc1989) which has all of our available offers, including:
20% off NuSmile dentists
A free Psycle session
Grubby: 50% off + free delivery on 1st box, plus 30% off for the rest of the month
2 weeks free trial of El Tab app giving members 4 free drinks in London nightly
20% off Sharp Movement
10% off all beers at Tap East
Discounted club trip to Leyton Orient on February 13th 2024
Pushing for Promotion
Last week a huge 1-0 win for the M8 over East London saw them become the 4th Wapping team at the top of their respective tables pushing for promotion as we come to the business end of the season joining the M1, L1 and L6 who are all in tightly contested fights for the top spot.
Read on to find out how you can raise recognition for some fab women across the club, some dates for your calendar and an update from one of our team sponsor’s.
Sponsor update - Feeney’s
The L5’s sponsor, Feeney’s, have opened a new venue, The Dog, in Aldgate. Not only will this be the location for the L1/M1 quiz fundraiser in a few weeks time, but it is also showing Six Nations matches for all the rugby fans who fancy great vibes and great drinks.
If you prefer to stick to what you know, the OG Feeney’s is open Monday-Saturday and they are hosting a week of St Patrick’s Day events 13th-20th March - a great option for a team social.
International Women’s Day nominations:
In celebration of International Women’s Day in March we want to give recognition to some of the brilliant women of Wapping who inspire us everyday. Whether on the field or off, this is an opportunity to shine a spotlight on women across the club.
We’re asking you to send in your nominations of those who embody the spirit of Wapping. Send in the name of the nomination and the reason why you are nominating them by Sunday 11th February to wappinghcpress@gmail.com.
Back 2 Hockey
A reminder that Back 2 Hockey is taking place every Tuesday 8:30-10:00pm at John Orwell. Sessions are free and led by the Ladies 1s. It’s a great session for those who haven’t played hockey before or are looking to get back into the sport. It is also a great way of getting people to know the club, so do reach out to any friends, family or colleagues who may be interested in coming along.
Save the date (if you haven’t already):
Saturday 10th February: 6 Nations social at the Moretown Belle from 4pm
Saturday 2nd March: L1/M1 quiz night fundraiser at The Dog, timings tbc
Saturday 20th April: End of Season Dinner
As it stands:
Last week in a line: WLLLWWLWWDWLLWWD
Fixtures this week:
Member discounts:
Check out our Members' area (Password: whc1989) which has all of our available offers, including:
20% off NuSmile dentists
A free Psycle session
Grubby: 50% off + free delivery on 1st box, plus 30% off for the rest of the month
2 weeks free trial of El Tab app giving members 4 free drinks in London nightly
20% off Sharp Movement
10% off all beers at Tap East
Discounted club trip to Leyton Orient on February 13th 2024
Let’s hear it for the girls
As January finalllyyy comes to an end the second half of the season is in full swing and there are some tight battles underway for promotion/regulation - particularly for the M1/L1 who are in tightly contested battles for promotion to National League. There’s a big derby on the cards this week for the M8 v East London 8, and the Printers Mixed team are also traveling to Cheam on Sunday for their next cup game.
International Women’s Day: nominations open!
With International Women’s Day fast approaching on Friday 8th March, nominations are open to recognise some of the strong women across Wapping. There are so many great women across the club scoring hattricks, umpiring every week, coaching across the club and generally bringing great vibes.
Please send the name of the person you are nominating and why to the press team by email: wappinghcpress@gmail.com
Save the date(s)
The social team have been hustling away to get social dates for the second half of the season in the diary - make sure you don’t miss out!
Saturday 10th February: 6 nations Social @ the Mooretown Belle from 4pm
Saturday 2nd March: L1/M1 quiz night Fundraiser - details tbc
Saturday 20th April: End of Season Dinner - details tbc
Make sure you are following us on insta to be the first to hear further details!
Sporting wellness
Our welfare team have approached Sporting Wellness about their mental health services and would like to get an understanding of whether this is something our club members would like access to. Please complete this quick, anonymous questionnaire to help us plan ahead.
Sponsor update: NuSmile
It's been great to see so many people getting their pearly whites polished at NuSmile - they're still offering 20% off all treatments including fillings, Invisalign and composite bonding. Please note this doesn't cover diagnostics like check ups and hygienist but does cover any treatments they recommend.
Who says keepers are unfit?
Ben from the Men's 6s is running the London Marathon in April in aid of the RNLI. With just under 12 weeks to go, the realisation of what's ahead is now setting in but the excitement is building at the same time!
If you would like to support Ben's marathon effort, you can donate here.
Results update:
Fixtures this week:
Member discounts:
Check out our Members' area (Password: whc1989) which has all of our available offers, including:
20% off NuSmile dentists
A free Psycle session
Grubby: 50% off + free delivery on 1st box, plus 30% off for the rest of the month
2 weeks free trial of El Tab app giving members 4 free drinks in London nightly
20% off Sharp Movement
10% off all beers at Tap East
Discounted club trip to Leyton Orient on February 13th 2024
Tour Tour Tour
This Back Post has some great deals from a couple of our sponsors and information about the Pirates tour to Reading in July.
There were some great results last week for the Kidds as well as a 4-2 win for the M1, a 4-0 win for the L5, a 4-3 win against East London for the Dev team and wins for the L6 and M8 in Wapping Derbies.This week there are more East London derbies for the M7, M8 and M9 - get down and watch if you can!
This Back Post has some great deals from a couple of our sponsors and information about the Pirates tour to Reading in July.
Sponsor deals!
Custom carbon sticks
Our Dev team sponsor, Salmon Hockey, has delivered us some banging custom carbon sticks available at a bargain price of £50 on the Wapping Shop. Limited run, get them while they last!
Leyton Orient
The club has partnered with Leyton Orient who have provided a block of seats at their game on Feb 13th (7:45pm vs Northampton Town) for a discounted rate of £15 - with half of that coming back to the club! It’s great to see so many people coming along, if anyone else would like to join, you can pick up a ticket here.
CAWHL Summer League Update
Calling all volunteers! We're looking to make this year's Summer League bigger and better than ever. If you're interested in contributing or wish to learn more about available roles, please reach out to us at wappingvcc@gmail.com.
Tour alert!
The pirates team are going on tour and you don’t want to be missing out:
Overview: Sonning Hockey Festival 2024: Friday 5th - Sunday 7th July. 11-a-side full pitch mixed hockey tournament. More details: https://www.sonninghockeyfestival.co.uk/
What is it?
Grass & Astro games
Semi-competitive or Social levels
Teams are capped at max. 25 players
Sonning Toybox fancy dress theme
Friday night is Disco night w/ DJ ‘Bomber’ Harris
Live music Saturday night
Camping
The £40 price will include:
Generous welcome drinks gift
Entrance wrist bands
Disco Friday night
Fancy dress party!
Live Band Saturday night
Free camping, free parking
Full marquee and bar!
Onsite facilities
..and of course plenty of hockey!"
How to sign up?
Either email wappinghcpirates@gmail.com or join the Pirates WhatsApp group
Whitechapel Clothes Donation
Thank you to those who have already donated! You can continue to drop off your contributions at either the LV reception or JO Store cupboard.
Results update:
Kidds: The U12 entered four teams into a tournament to take on THD and Honor Oak. Wapping Girls won their tournament convincingly and Wapping Boys remain unbeaten this season - winning their tournament without conceding a goal.
Last week in a line: WDDWLDLWLWWLLLWWL
Fixtures this Saturday:
Member discounts:
Check out our Members' area (Password: whc1989) which has all of our available offers, including:
20% off NuSmile dentists
A free Psycle session
Grubby: 50% off + free delivery on 1st box, plus 30% off for the rest of the month
2 weeks free trial of El Tab app giving members 4 free drinks in London nightly
20% off Sharp Movement
10% off all beers at Tap East
Discounted club trip to Leyton Orient on February 13th 2024
Derbies for days
This Back Post contains some updates about this weekend’s derbies, an exciting shout out to one of our umpires, a plug for support and some dates for your diary.
As the weather (finally) looks to be turning in hockey’s favour, there is a weekend of tasty derbies to be looking forward to. Hopefully the M1’s satisfying win over East London last week has left you craving more derby victories as this week the M3, L4 and Dockers all take on East London at home (scroll down for timings). Additionally, if that wasn’t spicy enough, there are two inter-Wapping derbies taking place: the M8 v M9 at 14:00 at JO followed directly after by a L6 v L7 match at 15:30 so plan for a full day of sideline fun and games.
Plugging some support
The M3 and L2 are back-to-back at LV this weekend (Pitch 1, 13:00 and 14:30) and could do with some vocal support, so if your team is at LV too please consider wrapping up (Wapping blankets can be found in our locker), grabbing yourself a tipple, and exercising your lungs to help them secure those 6 points.
Dates for the diary:
As dry/damp January comes to the end, socials are creeping back and there are a couple key dates to get in your diary:
Saturday 10th February: social secs have booked the club space at the Moretown Belle from 4pm for the England v Wales 6 Nations game
Saturday 2nd March: L1/M1 quiz raffle fundraiser, after the success of last year this fundraiser night is back - so keep the date free in your diary!
Woo go Phil:
Massive congrats to Phil O'Hagan for passing his Level 3 indoor umpiring assessment, making him Wapping HC’s first ever NPUA Indoor umpire. He’s also been selected for the World Masters indoor cup, taking place at the end of March in Nottingham. We wish him all the best!
Leave a Google review:
If you’ve got a spare five minutes this week why not help improve the club’s SEO rankings and give Wapping a Google review?
3 reasons why you should leave a review:
Another quick and easy way of showing appreciation for the club, shoutout your fave coach, a supportive team member, Lee Valley’s jacket potatoes - go wild
We want to hear from you! Any feedback, positive or negative is great to hear and means the exec can work to make changes that benefit members across the club
You’ll be one step closer to becoming a google review local legend
Results update:
Last week in a line: WWDDWWWWLLLLWL
Fixtures this Saturday:
Member discounts:
Check out our Members' area (Password: whc1989) which has all of our available offers, including:
20% off NuSmile dentists
A free Psycle session
Grubby: 50% off + free delivery on 1st box, plus 30% off for the rest of the month
2 weeks free trial of El Tab app giving members 4 free drinks in London nightly
20% off Sharp Movement
10% off all beers at Tap East
Discounted club trip to Leyton Orient on February 13th 2024
We’re back baby
This Back Post contains some updates today about the M1 derby this evening, some exciting new stash and how to watch some England hockey from the comfort of your sofa!
Whilst the weather unfortunately continues trying to stop us from playing hockey, the festive break is well and truly over and this weekend teams are (weather dependent) back in action.
Some updates today about the M1 derby this evening, some exciting new stash and how to watch some England hockey from the comfort of your sofa!
M1 derby:
A reminder that the M1 are kicking off the second half of the season with a derby match against East London under the lights at Lee Valley this evening. With the M1 only 2 points off the top of London Prem it would be great to get as many supporters down as possible. Push back is 8:30pm on pitch 1.
sTash alert!
A shout-out to all women in the club who would like a pair of Wapping shorts. They are now available to order via the link below: https://www.hawkinsport.co.uk/products/wapping-hc-womens-short
While you’re at it feel free to pick up other bits and bobs from the Wapping shop!
Hockey on the BBC
If you still feel you need more hockey in your life then the BBC have come to your rescue and are showing all GB Olympic qualifying matches, taking place between the 13th and 21st January, live on BBC sport. Details on match timings below:
GB Women
V Canada: Saturday 13th September , PB 8:30am
V Spain: Sunday 14th September, PB 10:45am
V Malaysia: Tuesday 16th September, PB 13:15pm
GB Men
V Pakistan: Monday 15th September, PB 16:45pm
V Malaysia: Tuesday 16th September, PB 16:45pm
V China: Thursday 18th September, PB 14:30pm
England Hockey have worked really hard with the BBC since the Commonwealth Games to get them to televise hockey on free to air channels. The BBC’s argument is that when televised historically, hockey didn't get the 50K threshold of viewers that it has as a baseline for televising specific sports. It would be great to smash that number and show that hockey players are also watchers so please spread the message and see if we can get eyeballs on the games.
Results update:
Fixtures this Saturday:
Member discounts:
Check out our Members' area (Password: whc1989) which has all of our available offers, including:
20% off NuSmile dentists
A free Psycle session
Grubby: 50% off + free delivery on 1st box, plus 30% off for the rest of the month
2 weeks free trial of El Tab app giving members 4 free drinks in London nightly
20% off Sharp Movement
10% off all beers at Tap East
Discounted club trip to Leyton Orient on February 13th 2024
Happy New Year!
Happy New Year all
And just like that it’s 2024 and we’re half way through the season. A big congratulations to the L1s and L7s, who sit top of their leagues and have won 10/10 and 8/9 respectively, with multiple other teams not far behind in their pushes for promotion.
Before we start again, here’s a couple of action points, a few thanks, some reflections from the committee, and a note on where our Chair will be focusing efforts in 2024.
Action points
If you have any feedback/suggestions for next season please let someone on the Exec know before our 24/25 planning session on the 1st of Feb. We can only change things we know about so all feedback will help us help you.
Continue showing love for your umpires. As well as unequivocal in game respect, please remember to welcome them when they arrive, offer them a drink, and include them at teas. Often they will have travelled a significant way or given up their own post-game fun to ensure your match can be played.
If you have a medical issue please ensure someone on your team knows (ideally your captain) so they can provide appropriate help if required.
Thank yous
Firstly, a massive thanks from our alumni for all your support when we lost Wonders in November. Wonders was a huge personality and in honour of everything she brought to Wapping we’re introducing a personality of the year award at this year’s end of season, ‘The Wapping Wonder’.
Secondly, a big thanks from Kidds to everyone who’s helping out including the 2s and 3s whose support at the Friday night sessions has been brilliant. The youth section is going from strength to strength and being able to support and inspire our young players together is something really special.
Finally, a massive thanks from us to you. This half season has been wildly better than last year’s in almost every way, and that is solely down to you all. Having oversight on the many conversations happening constantly across the club really highlights how brilliant people at Wapping are.
Committee Reflections
OFFICIATING:
Thanks to the amazing Jane we’ve filled every umpire slot this half season but, as ever, having more umpires would make everything easier. For the second half of the season we’re changing how we manage umpires, with teams being allocated slots they’ll need to fill, so if you haven’t already, make sure you take the online Level 1 Umpire course over the break so you can support your team with this.
I also want to take this opportunity to thank all our umpires for their support and all those who have encouraged umpires old and new this season. The London League are short of umpires currently and without people from the club willing to officiate we simply wouldn’t be allowed to compete.
If anyone is considering trying umpiring - this is your year - as we have three incredible umpire Development Officers who want to help so do reach out to them. We also have a number of new umpires this season, including some fabulous women, who would be happy to talk with anyone who’s interested.
SPONSORSHIP:
Following an overhaul of our sponsorships this season we were pleased to onboard loads of new sponsors. Before the season began Chambers Timber kindly donated the materials for the storeroom renovation and Simon Wright Jewellery renewed his position as the go-to man for all Wapping engagements.
Salmon Hockey has joined us as sponsor of the Dev Squad and is providing carbon sticks and shin pads at hugely discounted rates over at the Wapping Shop. NuSmile Dentists became L3 sponsors and are offering a mega 20% off all their treatments, a possible saving of hundreds of pounds if anyone you know is looking for Invisalign or whitening. They also do general dentistry so a good chance to get a check up at a similar price to the NHS.
The M3 brewed their "DoD beer" at Tap East which will be available in the New Year: Wapping members get 10% off everything in the bar. Finally, the mighty Feeney's Irish Pub came on board to sponsor the L5, stay tuned in the new year for news of their new venue.
We are now looking towards CAWHL sponsorships, if you know of anyone who may be keen to get involved, please do email wappingsponsorship@gmail.com
COMMUNITY:
We're thrilled by the fantastic start to this season, witnessing the club grow stronger with each passing week. From a community perspective, we've recently welcomed Emma Thorne to the welfare team, representing the ladies' side of the club. Emma is doing a stellar job, contributing content to ensure Wapping remains an outstanding club for all members. Expect more exciting updates from the welfare team in January! For any welfare-related concerns or suggestions, please don't hesitate to contact us at wappinghcwelfare@gmail.com or utilise the form.
CAWHL Summer League Update: Calling all volunteers! We're looking to make this year's Summer League bigger and better than ever. If you're interested in contributing or wish to learn more about available roles, please reach out to us at wappingvcc@gmail.com.
Whitechapel Clothes Donation: Thanks to those who have already donated! You can continue to drop off your contributions at either the LV reception or JO Store cupboard. We're extending the closing date into the new year to accommodate more donations.
If you have any suggestions or ideas to enhance our community initiatives, please get in touch! Your input is invaluable in shaping our community outreach.
Areas of Focus for 2024
Being blessed with a hugely dedicated committee means it’s full steam ahead across all areas of the club at all times, but as Chair there are two areas I’ll be championing for the remainder of the season.
Continued momentum for Kidds. We’re creating more formal alignment structures with the adult side of the club and there’s been a lot of work with the newly formed Kidds’ committee to support operations. Thanks to an incredible bunch of coaches the talent being fostered is unreal and to bolster that we’re considering appointing a new Kidds Head Coach to help pull the areas together and support growth.
Support for the 2s. Despite plenty of hard work, and some very promising games, the results for our 2nd teams haven’t fallen in their favour. And, in order to attract, maintain, and transition players at the club, it’s important we maintain divisional closeness between our top teams. As such, I urge everyone to support our 2s in any way they can, whether that be flagging players that could be playing higher, or cheering them on from the sidelines on a Saturday.
Wishing you all a Happy and Healthy 2024 - Rogers x
tips to prep for 2024 hockey!
Set a fun New Year’s Resolution: think big, why not resolve to score a hattrick in every hockey game you play in
Dive into the sales: if the above fails why not treat yourself in the boxing day sales
Analyse: if you’re sick of festive films and your team has used the club’s VEO camera, relive the highs of the first half of the season from the comfort of your sofa
Try and get off the sofa: try and at least do some light exercise inbetween the leftover mince pies and yorkshire puddings…
Social media never sleeps
Whilst hockey rests for some a little longer, please do continue to post on your team social media and like and save posts on the main @wappinghc instagram account. The engagement is making a real difference to the club in attracting players and sponsors. So drop us some likes or even a cheeky comment over the break xoxo
Results update:
Fixtures this week:
Member discounts:
Check out our Members' area (Password: whc1989) which has all of our available offers, including:
20% off NuSmile dentists
A free Psycle session
Grubby: 50% off + free delivery on 1st box, plus 30% off for the rest of the month
2 weeks free trial of El Tab app giving members 4 free drinks in London nightly
20% off Sharp Movement
10% off all beers at Tap East
Discounted club trip to Leyton Orient on February 13th 2024
Countdown to Christmas
This Back Post contains a reflection on Saturday’s social, a suggested christmas gift and an update on TOTY points
Whilst lots of teams didn’t get to have fun on the pitch last week due to the wintery temperatures (booo), the club certainly had a great time at the Christmas social. As we roll into the last week of league matches let’s keep our fingers crossed for slightly milder weather and some big wins!
Festive vibes!
A massive thank you to the social secs for another great evening on Saturday night at the Wapping Christmas social. There were turtle doves, the Spice Girls, reindeer, Greggs items, a Shrek squad and a Christmas boyband amongst others.
Best dressed went to: Ladies 3s who were dressed as Xmas #1s earning 50 big points towards their team of the year total (see below).
Team of the year
As we come to the midpoint of the season that also means we are half way through the team of the year competition. Points can be collected all over the place from performance on the pitch and helping out the club (umpiring, kidds, coaching etc.) to social media posts and even fancy dress at club socials.
Top 10 teams so far:
M8
L3
M3
M2
L5
L1
L4
L7
L2
M4
Some explanation on how these teams have risen to the top:
The judges: M8 and L5 have done tonnes of umpiring, making up the bulk of their points
The party animals: L7 are getting a great turnout at socials
The jacks of all trades: L3 and M3 are getting solid points across the board including umpiring, kidds coaching, fundraising and coaching
The workhorse: shoutout to Smithy who apparently is ‘carrying’ the M4s on points
Give the gift of sparkly teeth this Xmas 🎄🦷
A reminder that NuSmile dentists are giving Wapping players (and their loved ones) an amazing 20% off all general and cosmetic dentistry. If you, or anyone you know, is considering Invisalign / whitening etc, now’s the chance to invest to save hundreds of pounds 😁
Results update:
Last week in a line: WWLLL
Fixtures this week
Member discounts:
Check out our Members' area (Password: whc1989) which has all of our available offers, including:
20% off NuSmile dentists
A free Psycle session
Grubby: 50% off + free delivery on 1st box, plus 30% off for the rest of the month
2 weeks free trial of El Tab app giving members 4 free drinks in London nightly
20% off Sharp Movement
Discounted club trip to Leyton Orient on February 13th 2024
It’s getting chilly
This Back Post contains an update on our newly qualified umpires, a match report for the Printers, and a reminder on making your Whitechapel Mission donations.
With temperatures dropping who knows how many hockey matches will be played this weekend. There’s a big M1 v East London 1 derby on the cards so let’s pray for sunshine!
However, whatever the weather we still have the Christmas social to look forward to on Saturday. Bring your best team outfits to Forge from 7:30pm for some fun festive vibes.
Umpire assessments:
A big congratulations to three of our Wapping umpires who all successfully passed their Level 1 assessments this month. Isabel Ringrose, JJ Littlemore and Brad Quinn were all passed by Phil O’Hagan.
If you are interested in getting involved in umpiring, please do reach out to our ULO Jane by emailing wappingulo@gmail.com. Not only is it a great way to give back to the club, but you will also receive £15 for every game you umpire.
Movember update:
As Movember ends here are some final pics of the M3’s Movember attempt!
Please do continue to donate here.
Whitechapel Mission
A box is now at LV and there will be one at JO from tomorrow evening so please do donate any items you can. As a reminder the mission are in need of:
Clothes, Toiletries and Linen. More info on this here: https://whitechapel.org.uk/supporting-us
We will be looking to make the donation to Whitechapel Mission on the 18th December.
Printers match report - 3-0 Win
Last Sunday the Printers mixed team took on Havering in the first round of the England Hockey mixed club at Lee Valley. Despite some weary legs and even wearier heads, the team managed to arrive on time and even get out for a warm up, a rare occurrence for a mixed match.
Wapping held good possession and pinged the ball around, resulting in a corner that was converted by Jenna Maclaren despite the routine being slightly ‘unique’. Shears spent the first half running miles in the midfield and Smithy in goal had little to do. 1-0 at half time and my ears could hardly believe it when Matt Bowen said ‘we were doing well’ and ‘playing some nice hockey’. Not the half time talks I’m used to.
Into the second half and some great individual skill from Sam was converted by Dom into a second goal for Wapping. Katie and Gigi continued to press hard and Shears was still running circles around Havering mids. Matt was busy in the middle denying, delaying and dictating play as usual. DV sealed the game with a lovely hit to make it 3-0 to Wapping.
MOM to Shears for relentless running and great ambition.
Results update:
Last week in a line: LLWLWLDLDLL
Fixtures this week
Member discounts:
Check out our Members' area (Password: whc1989) which has all of our available offers, including:
20% off NuSmile dentists
A free Psycle session
Grubby: 50% off + free delivery on 1st box, plus 30% off for the rest of the month
2 weeks free trial of El Tab app giving members 4 free drinks in London nightly
20% off Sharp Movement
Discounted club trip to Leyton Orient on February 13th 2024
Giving and receiving
This Back Post contains an update on how we’ll be organising umpires in 2024, a shout-out for Whitechapel Mission donations, and a reminder on how to raise funds for the club over Black Friday.
Shoutouts last weekend to the M8 who put 8 goals past THD in an 8-1 win, the L1 who make it 8 in 8, maintaining their perfect start to the season and top of the league position, and the L7 for getting their first win of the season against East London. As we push towards Christmas there are lots of big games this weekend including the M7 and M9 who have derbies against East London.
It’s festive season!
It’s time to start getting in the festive spirit (if you haven’t already) with our club Christmas social which is taking place next Saturday the 2nd December at Forge (near Bank) from 7:30pm. Time to get your outfits, dance moves and best chat ready for what will be a great night to kick off the festive period!
New Year New Umpire system
A huge thanks to all those who have umpired this year/got trained up/been assessed. You guys rock 🤘 We're in a better place than last year but we've still a way to go, so now the teams have settled, we're switching up how we allocate umpires.
Starting January 13th, our ULO, Jane, will update the number of slots that need covering as normal but each slot will also have a team allocated to it based on level and timing of other games. If by Wednesday there has not been an offer to cover the slot, the team that has been allocated it MUST provide an umpire. Slots will be allocated well in advance so there will be plenty of notice for your team to organise who helps out.
So what do YOU need to do before then?
1. If you aren't already an umpire, take the online umpire course (click on the 'BOOK HERE England Hockey' box under the 'Level 1 Umpiring Course, select a date, register an account, and book your course. Please note that once taken our UDOs can support you with as much on pitch help as you need. If the cost (£30) is prohibitive please reach out in confidence to our treasurer.
2. If you're already an umpire, encourage your teammates to get trained up and consider reaching out to our Development Officers, James, Phil and DC should you like any development support.
Whitechapel Mission
Since 1876, The Whitechapel Mission has been called to serve the men and women caught in the cycles of poverty, hopelessness and dependencies of many kinds, and to see their lives transformed to hope, joy and lasting productivity.
Winter is a difficult time for many people, but especially for those sleeping rough. The weather is changeable, and the nights are longer. At the peak of winter, it will be dark by 4pm. We all know our summer is over and the cold is here. And they know it too.
How can we support?
1. Donating Clothes, Toiletries and Linen. More info on this here: https://whitechapel.org.uk/supporting-us
So maybe it's time to do a winter clear out to create space for those new clothes you've bought in the recent sales or gifts you receive over this festive period!
Or
2. Financial donations, which can be made here https://whitechapel.org.uk/winterappeal
There will be donation bags/boxes at both LV and JO storage rooms for you to drop off your amazing donations!
We will be looking to make the donation to Whitechapel Mission on the 18th December.
It’s Black FriYay
If you still haven’t downloaded EasyFundraising, today is literally the perfect day to do so before you make any Black Friday purchases! EasyFundraising partners with over 7,000 brands who will donate part of what you spend to a cause of your choice. It won't cost you any extra. The cost is covered by the brand.
Our cause is Wapping Hockey Club and we’ve already raised £2.7k for club for purchases from easyFundraising.
Additionally, Club member Iain Davidson has increased the donation payments for Three Mobile if you go via https://www.easyfundraising.org.uk/retailer/three-mobile/ with donations going up to £50.00 per purchase, as well as some great Black Friday deals on phones, SIM only contracts and broadband.
And if you don’t need to change your phone contract, have a look at great offers from loads of retailers such as Amazon, Adidas, Apple, Expedia, JustEat and more – all who will donate money to Wapping when you purchase!
Results update:
Last week in a line: DLWLLLWDLWLLWDW
Fixtures this week
Member discounts:
Check out our Members' area (Password: whc1989) which has all of our available offers, including:
20% off NuSmile dentists
A free Psycle session
Grubby: 50% off + free delivery on 1st box, plus 30% off for the rest of the month
2 weeks free trial of El Tab app giving members 4 free drinks in London nightly
20% off Sharp Movement
Discounted club trip to Leyton Orient on February 13th 2024