England goalkeeper Maddie Hinch needs little introduction even to the non-hockey fan. The fearless, agile No1 caught the nation’s attention when her shootout heroics helped Great Britain to an Olympic gold medal in Rio in front of an audience of millions.

Hinch is now preparing to head to the Netherlands to try to recapture the European title England won two years ago. The 28-year-old, named FIH World’s Best Goalkeeper has been there, done it and got the medals as far as international hockey is concerned, yet she is still as determined as ever about the upcoming tournament.    Continue reading →

One of the things that has struck me about the new-look England squad during the early days of the current cycle is the feel-good factor around the group. There seems to be a buzz, a happiness and an excitement which is mirrored by their efforts on the field. Phil Roper, one of Bobby Crutchley’s three captains, seems to be the embodiment of that when we meet for our interview in glorious sunshine at the picturesque Bisham Abbey. Relaxed, bouncy, smiling and almost carefree, Roper who has played some of the best hockey of his career in the past six months is clearly in a good place right now. Continue reading →