Junior Section
We currently have approximately 70 members divided into three groups based primarily on age; Under 11 (Year 6 and below), Under 13 (Years 7 & 8 and Under 16 (Year 9 & above).
Our youngest players are typically aged 7 or 8 mainly due to the level of concentration and co-ordination required.

Location
All of the clubs home matches and training sessions are held on the Artificial Turf Pitch (ATP) located behind Droitwich Leisure Centre (WR9 0AA). We are one of the few clubs who have a clubhouse directly adjacent to the pitch.

Coaches
The majority of our coaches are qualified to England Hockey Level 1 or Level 2 standard. All of our coaches and assistant coaches are CRB checked and many have First Aid qualifications. We also have a fully qualified Child Welfare Officer who can handle and child protection issues. We are always in need to additional help and training can be provided to anyone wishing to help.

Training
Junior training takes place on a Wednesday evening between 6.30pm and 7.30pm for U11, U13 & U15 age groups. Some Juniors will be invited to train with the adult sides from 7.30pm to 8.30pm. Everyone is required to register their attendance in the clubhouse from 6.15pm onwards.

We have a structured training program which runs from September through to April which aims to teach the Core Skills of Hockey to an appropriate level based on a child’s age and ability (recommended Long Term Athelete Development – LTAD).
Section Training Activities
Under 11 Basic movement skills, agility and co-ordination. Introduction to basic hockey skills & small sided games. Knowledge of basic rules of hockey.
Under 13 Development of core basic skills and increased exposure to game play. Introduction to more advanced skills. Knowledge of rules of mini-Hockey.
Under 16 Implementation of core skills in game situations. Development of tactical play and set pieces. Knowledge of rules of 11-a-side hockey.

For all our age groups the priority is FUN…it is a hobby after all!

Competitive Opportunities
We are the hosts for the Worcestershire Clubs (Friendly) League. There are mini-tournaments one Sunday per month through the season for the U11 and U13 age groups, with a final End-of Season tournament. We have also sent a side to the annual U9’s tournament held in Worcester.
The older players play in our Badgers side with full 11-a-side matches on most Saturday’s throughout the season. A Badgers team comprises players under 16 plus up to three adult players. The role of the adults players is to provide on pitch support and guidance. It is a great way to introduce the 11-a-side game and prepare players for adult hockey.
We strive to ensure players are progressed through the stages as their ability and maturity develop. They may therefore be moved to a higher age group or be asked to player Badgers or adult hockey. Any move to adult hockey is only made after consultation with parents.

Cost
The Junior section is “the Future” of the club and hence participation costs are kept to an absolute minimum. Currently a Junior Annual membership is only £35, which enables attendance at Training sessions (~ 25 per season). An additional fee is payable for matches £4 for full 11-a-side games and £2.50 for 7-a-side mini-hockey games.

Basic Requirements
1) Footwear: Sensible training/sports shoes are required
2) Shinpads: Are compulsory for all training and matches
3) Gumshield: Is strongly recommended for training and matches
4) Stick: We have a few to borrow and advice can be given on the correct one to purchase
5) Smile: Compulsory!

If you need any further information then please contact:
Simon Blackmore
Junior Development Manager
Tel: 07847 323226