What a year the club had in 2013/14 with both ladies and men's teams having great success with league titles, promotions and cups wins. I know I am very much looking forward to this year and I am in no doubt that we will continue to build on the successes of last season.

The Ladies 1's with a new coach and a strengthened squad will once again be pushing for the league title and promotion back to the premier league. Going so close in the playoffs last year is always disappointing but the ladies will have learnt from it and be stronger this season. The ladies 2's having secured promotion last year are looking to push on and continue their development against more challenging opposition. The ladies 3's will again be a mix of youth and experience, with a number of junior girls now coming up through the ranks so an exciting season ahead.

The men's 1's having secured promotion back to Premier league beginning their league campaign at home to Southgate HC on Sat, and Head coach Mark Bateman after a number of signings and hard preseason program is confident of pushing the team forward and looking for a mid table finish. The men's 2's welcome back a number of experienced ex national league players, and alongside an ever developing group of juniors and new recruits are excited about the season ahead under new coach Pete Mulford. The influx if new players and juniors coming through is going to greatly benefit the lower teams, with the men's 3's looking to have a more settled squad this season, and the men's 4's and 5's providing an environment for the club to bring through our junior talent, under the watchful eyes of some of the senior stalwarts of the club.

I can't forgot our mens veterans, having won the national knockout last season, Gary Browns men have added to their squad (thanks to a few significant birthdays) and will know doubt be keen to go all the way and retain their title.

We have so much to look forward to this season, but none of this is ever easy and for all amateur sports clubs financing elite hockey does come at a price. We have unfortunately just learnt over the past few days we have lost our Mens main sponsor for the coming season. This is a massive financial blow to us as a club and we are now urgently looking to find new sponsors who would be interested in partnering with the leading elite hockey club in the north of England.

If any member, parent or supporter has any contacts, personal or business that would potentially be interested in becoming involved with us at any level can they please contact me. We have a number of opportunities and have put together an information pack which can be provided on request. I would personally like the opportunity to speak to any potential interested parties. I thank you in advance of any assistance you may be able to provide.

The club is in its 125th year and to celebrate we are holding an anniversary dinner in January at Old Trafford Cricket Club. The dinner is for players & ex players young and old, club officials and invited guests from the world of hockey. If you are interested in attending please contact Howard Morris for details .

Finally, I wish all players the best of luck this season and thank all volunteers, umpires and coaches for their hard work. I also hope to see as many of you supporters down cheering on the ladies and mens teams as possible, as we go through our 125th season.

Best regards

Steve Andrews

Mens Chairman.