Hamble Hockey Club celebrated a successful season at their annual Youth Awards.

The event, held at High Score Arcades in Southampton on May 11, recognised the achievements of players from the under-8s to under-14s after a year of matches, tournaments, and team growth.

The ceremony was attended by players, families, coaches, and volunteers.

Scott Simper, head youth coach, said: "Our young players have had a fantastic season.

"It’s been brilliant to see their confidence and skills develop across the age groups – and even better to see them having fun, supporting each other, and really coming together as teams."

The standout award winners included Lily, named Youth Player of the Year, and Oscar, who scooped U8/10 Player of the Year.

Other winners included Hugo (U14 Player of the Year), Alba (U12 Player of the Year), and Tilly (U12 Most Improved).

This season saw Hamble youth teams not only grow in numbers but also in success, competing in tournaments across Hampshire and putting in impressive performances on home turf.

The club has also welcomed a wave of new young players, a testament to the growing interest in grassroots hockey.

A significant boost this year came from the generosity of CooperVision, whose donation enabled the club to provide brand new playing kit for the entire youth section.

Looking ahead to next season, the club will be making history by entering its first-ever Girls’ U12 team into league competition.

Zoe Hanson, U12s coach, said: "This is such an exciting moment for the club.

"Over the past few seasons, we’ve seen a real rise in the number of enthusiastic, talented young girls picking up a stick – and now we have the numbers and the momentum to launch a dedicated team.

"It’s a brilliant reflection of how far our youth section has come."

Hamble Hockey Club, based in the grounds of The Hamble School since 1958, continues to run on the commitment of its volunteers and the generosity of local support.

The club is urgently seeking new sponsors and partners to help fund essential pitch and facility upgrades and ensure hockey remains accessible to all.