Blandford men’s Hockey club has seen immediate success, since it’s regeneration in 2024.
The ladies team has been going since 2007, with the men’s 1st team being brought back two years ago.
36-year-old, Matty Lewis, who’s first team captain, joined last year.
Lewis outlined how there is a real focus on rebuilding the men’s section of the club.
“The club was regenerated in 24/25, and we rebuilt the men’s section completely.
“I joined the club last year and because we were a new team, we had to start right at the bottom”, Lewis told Buzz News.
Blandford then achieved a double promotion, going unbeaten the whole of last season.
Lewis said: “With the league restructure, we ended up getting promoted to Division 5.
“It’s been really good for us, being top of Division 5 currently, and were hopeful of another promotion this season.
With Blandford’s promotion, a rebuild is way underway, and as the captain, it’s Lewis’ job to select the team, a team full of experience but also new players.
He said: “The focus at the moment has been developing new players.
“I’ve got 34 people to put into 11 starting places, and the idea next year is to start a second team, to give new players more game time.
“I’ve got my core group of players and the priority is for the first team to push on and earn promotion.”
Blandford’s promotion was a rewarding moment for all involved, especially with a new team and a new captain in Lewis.
With promotion again looking likely, Lewis spoke of the clubs’ ambitions as well as his own, in the sport.
He said: “As a club it’s just about pushing forward, our team is capable of playing at a much higher level.
Lewis added: “Personally my ambition is to try and get into a regional side, I could play West or South Central, that’s the next step up.
“If I can get into an England Masters side then I’ll be well happy.”
With Blandford taking on Andover this weekend, Lewis and his team will be in search of victory, to maintain their stay at the top.
Lewis said: “Andover are a good side, good quality and it’ll be a tough one but hopefully we get over the line.”
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