THE only men’s hockey club in Powys is teetering on the precipice and have made a heartfelt plea for new blood.
Newtown Men’s Hockey Club have struggled for players for the past few seasons but the crisis has come to a head since the start of the new campaign.
A spate of players have called time on their association with the Maldwyn Leisure Centre-based club, which have offered competitive hockey for men for over two decades; while climbing as high as the first division of the West Midlands Hockey set-up.
Spokesman Neil Godsell confirmed the club had been sweating on their future at the start of the season, only for several players to come out of retirement and ensure the club can fulfil their fixtures.
“It was really worrying at the start of the season, we had only half a dozen players turning up for training and we feared the worst,” said Godsell.
“Thankfully the club have pulled together and with a few semi-retired players helping out we have actually won our last two games, which is a credit to the spirit throughout Newtown Hockey Club.”
Several players departed for university at the start of the season, with a few more defecting to football; while there were also a number of players opting to step down from active playing duties.
This coupled with a shortage of new blood coming into the club has prompted the plea.
Thankfully Godsell reported the club’s plight has already prompted several players who had only previously trained with the club to step up and represent the region.
“We have had a great response from players families and supporters,” said Godsell. “We always get a few loyal fans down at Maldwyn and we are now getting the odd few for away games.
“Some lads have come to training and we will help with coaching and supplying training and matchday equipment.
“Newtown Men’s Hockey Club have been around for so long and represents the only men’s club in Powys, so it would be such a shame if it were lost.”
Newtown Men's Hockey Club train every Wednesday night from 7.30-9pm at Maldwyn Leisure Centre, with all ages and abilities welcome from 11 years up. Further details are available from Tudor Jones on 07918 608060.