Men's 1XI training back in full flow
Having returned to training back in early June, this week has seen the players step up there efforts in preparation for the new season. "We have finished our fitness in Allestree Park now and are starting twice a week on the turf" commented Ben Lamb, Head Coach. "I am very pleased with the efforts the guys have put in to date, they are already looking sharper, although some still have work to do". The fitness programme the Nailers players have been working to has been drawn up by new Assistant Coach, Graham Joyce. "The programme is designed to get the guys into the correct shape for when the season starts". "We are looking at speed endurance over the next few weeks and we will see how the guys are coping after the testing in early August" added Joyce.
The Nailers start a busy pre-season fixture list in August when they travel to Edinburgh to play 4 matches. They then play Olton & West Warwicks of the Midlands Premier Division, Menzies Hill and finally finish with a game away at Bournville. The Nailers then have a week's rest before the first National League fixture away at Telford & Wrekin on Sunday 28th September 2008.

Slazenger Summer Camp gets underway at Belper
By Ben Lamb
Today, Monday July 28th, saw the start of the inaugural Slazenger Summer Hockey Camp for junior boys and girls aged between 8 and 14. The camp, set up by Ben Lamb, Paul Lawrence, Judy Hooker and Joanne Rogers for Belper Hockey Club, has been designed to give high quality hockey coaching in a fantastic environment close to home. “Why travel to residential camps when you can get the same right here at Belper?” stated Ben Lamb, Coach. “We have put together a programme which is going to challenge young players, but at the same time bring lots of smiles, as the priority is to have fun whilst learning” added Paul Lawrence.
During the 5 days young players will be given the opportunity to develop their core skills, with particular attention being paid to hitting the ball. They will also learn the fundamentals of moving with and without the ball and they will also play in lots of small sided matches. The camp is set to run all week at Belper Meadows Sports Club. Although the camp is almost full, should you wish your child to take part you can bring them along to any of the days, starting at 10am, meeting at the Astro-turf. Cost is £15 per day. For further information please contact Joanne Rogers (m) 07766 771179.
As well as the Hockey Camp, a Young Leaders Award programme is taking part at the Sports Club. 10 young candidates, all junior players at Belper, are being put through their paces learning a series of modules based on umpiring, managing and other aspects of the game. Paul Yetzes, Regional Development Officer for Derbyshire, is tutoring some of the course.

Boys training programme for 2008 - 2009 season
By Sally Cozens and Judy Hooker
Ben Lamb coaching co-ordinator for U13s to U18s.
U13 / U15 Training begins August 5th at new time of 6 30pm til 8pm. Paul Lawrence will lead the Tuesday night sessions assisted by Chris Hall, Matt Rowe, Ben Mills and possibly a new Men’s First Team player. We will continue at this time throughout the season.
U13s coordinated by Judy Hooker. (Email: Nigel@nhooker.wanadoo.co.uk Tel: 01332 843946 Mob: 07746 487 045)
Due to the large numbers moving up to junior training we are hoping to run two teams, one to be managed by Judy and a willing volunteer is needed to manage the second.
U15s coordinated by Alan Wisdish (Email: alan.wisdish@atkinsglobal.com Tel: 01332 840983 Mobile: 07801 668 959)
U18 Training will begin on Monday 18th August at 8pm – 9 30pm
Coaching led by Mark Lamb and assisted by Men’s First Team players
Team managers: Steve Miles (Email: Stevemiles@fsmail.net Tel:01332 842655) and Sally Cozens (Email: Neilcozens@Btinternet.com Tel: 01332842220 Mobile: 07946 577 115).

Sam McCambridge to return for the Nailers
Belper Men's Hockey Club are pleased to annouce the return of Sam McCambridge for another season at the Meadows. After returning to Australia in April to play in the regular season back home, Sam has agreed to return to England in September to hopefully carry on where he left off last season. McCambridge was instrumental in the Nailers success last year, amassing 16 field goals in his first season with the club. McCambridge's return is welcomed by Nailer's Coach, Ben Lamb. "It is great news that we have secured Sammy's services for another season". "He was excellent last year and I feel he can only get better" added Lamb. "It was frustrating at times for Sammy as he perhaps didn't get the service he needed on the field consistently, hopefully that will change this time around".
As well as signing McCambridge, Lamb has been talking with further new players in a bid to strengthen his squad ready for the new season. "We are at advanced stages with two players and I'm hopeful we can tie up these deals in the next week or so". "We already have Nick Morris stepping back into the frame and a new goalkeeper, Craig Simms, to strengthen the squad". "I feel we are about there, but would like another defender, if I can find one". The Nailers have been back in training since the start of June and Assistant Coach, Graham Joyce, is confident the boys will be ready. "I'm in no doubt, the boys will be fitter and sharper than in previous seasons". "We started early with a view to being match fit and ready to start the season in September flying" commented Joyce.
The Nailers start they league campaign in National League Northern Conference on Sunday 28th September 2008 away at Telford & Wrekin.

Sunday June 29th u14 boys Lichfield Tournament
By Sally Cozens
Two Belper Boys U14 teams arrived in Lichfield in the driving rain and howling wind last Sunday for an afternoon tournament. Not quite what we had imagined a June day would be like when we entered back in April! Undaunted we set up our base camp and got on with the job.
Belper Blues were a year 9 team managed by Sally with Simon Taylor (yr 8) playing for the first time with these boys in goal. Belper Reds were our Year 7s managed by Judy and playing against generally older teams. Lozza was coach to them both and spent the entire afternoon running from one match to the other and what a brilliant job he did.
There were two leagues and we had one team in each. Belper Blues played first and were against Beeston – it had to be! It was a tense match but Belper were triumphant. Belper Reds played next against Worcestershire and again Belper were victorious. The Blues continued their campaign and were winners in all the pool games making them top of their league. The Reds lost to Lichfield but beat Wolverhampton 2 – 1 so they came second in their league which resulted in the next game- Belper Blues v Belper Reds! It was a very exciting game but the age and strength of the Blues eventually brought them victory. The Reds played very well with the defence doing a great job against the older team but they just needed to score more goals. Last matches of the day were for overall position.
Belper Blues v Beeston, Belper Reds v Worcestershire. Sadly both Belper teams were defeated 3 – 0 inspite of  some tremendous hockey and fierce determination. Both goal keepers did a sterling job throughout the afternoon for the home teams and also helping other teams who had no keeper.
Thanks must go to Lozza primarily who did an amazing job of coaching both teams and succeeded in getting both into the playoffs. Belper dominating again. Also a big thanks to all our supporters who braved terrible weather over a long afternoon to keep spirits up.
Belper Blues – James Cozens, Jo Sharp, Chris Bell, Ross Duncan, Alex Field, Fraser Brown, Jo Mckenzie, Simon Taylor
Belper Reds – Toby Hooker, Nick Pankhurst, Jacob Bullock, Alex Robey, Connor Gordon, Chris Handley, James Blythe, Nik Trifinovic

Belper Hockey Club junior internationals
Great news was announced earlier this week for both Men's and Ladies sections of Belper Hockey Club. Four Belper junior girls Alice Sharp, Anna Toman, Sophie Hawkins and Joanna Lane have been selected to represent England u16 girls at the European Youth Nations Championships being held at The Hague in Holland July 3rd - July 14th, 2008. Meanwhile Rhiannon Rogers will be wearing the red shirt of Wales u16's as she is playing this coming weekend - Friday-Sunday 13-15th - versus Scotland at Wrexham in a 3 match test series. The fantastic news for the junior boys section is the selection of Richard Cassidy for England U18's to play in Poland at an European Tournament. Also this week has been the selection of Ben Mills for the National Young Umpire Promising List 2008 (NYUPL). This means he will work with the best umpire coaches, umpiring the best young hockey; club national cup finals, county championship finals; regional tournaments in England.
This is superb news for all these youngsters and reward for all their hard work in training and time spent travelling the country. We're proud of you all - not bad for a small rural hockey club in Derbyshire -eh!

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Men's 1st XI - pre-season training Tuesday 10th June 2008
Pre-season training resumes on Tuesday 10th June 2008 down at the Meadows for the Men's 1st XI. All players wishing to be involved in the 1st XI Squad this season are invited to attend. Please report for training by 7pm in order to be ready to start at 7.30pm. Please make sure that you bring running shoes and a water bottle along with your hockey gear to training. Training is 7.30pm till 9.00pm on the astroturf at Belper Meadows. Anyone unable to make it, MUST inform Ben Lamb. A full pre-season programme will be issued shortly.

Disappointment for Belper boys under 11's
By Lindsey Shaw
The Belper u11 boys, undefeated all season, ran into strong headwinds at the National Finals on Sunday 18th May at Highfields, Nottingham. The format was a four match round robin league and the opposition from all regions of the coundry were both talented and well coached.
The morning matches were lost 0- 3 to Ben Rhydding and 0-2 to eventual winners Millfield Prep. Despite the scores they were in fact much closer affairs but Belper were unable to convert from a number of good chances in the D or short corners when faced with excellent goalkeeping. Both opponents had super strikers who took their opportunities well.
In the afternoon we drew 2-2 with Felsted Prep in a most exciting game where Belper fought back twice from behind. The final match of an exhausting day was against Canterbury and we lost 6-2, losing our shape somewhat amidst the onslaught. Nevertheless a good day was had by both players and supporters in the sunshine and we were left with a lot to think about for next year.

Lisa and John Brookes - Saturday 17th May, 2008
By Stephen Ford
This out-of-season match took place between Lisa Wilde and John Brookes - but it was no ordinary fixture. John is a stalwart member of the club, currently holding together the men's eighth team defence.  He was co-organiser of the club's 1989 world record 50-hour marathon, which was recorded in the Guinness Book of Records. However the match on this day was always going to be particularly difficult.  John's team members deserted him, whilst the bride's squad included a bevy of seven bridesmaids. The team strip for the ladies was full length pink dresses, ruched across the front of the bodice and laced up the back. Each carried a posy of pale pink roses and white tulips.
Dispensing with the traditional armband, the bride identified her captain's role with a very elegant ivory dress with a plain bodice embellished with diamante and full organza skirt.  Her veil was held in place with a matching tiara : she carried a posy of pale pink roses. John discarded the normal away-team kit for an ivory brocade frock coat, with matching waistcoat, brown trousers and toning pink tie and tie-pin. The first half of the game was played in the stunning setting of Hassop Hall near Bakewell, having spectacular views across the countryside. The wedding ceremony was conducted in the magnificent ballroom, with singers adding to the occasion. John scored the first goal with a quick 'I will', but Lisa drew level very quickly afterwards. After photographs and the wedding breakfast, the whistle blew for half time - the score : Bride 1 - Bridegroom 1.
There were obviously problems with the pitch, so for the second half, both sides and supporters transferred to yet another superb setting, Chatsworth - the team captains making the journey in a horse-drawn glass carriage. The second half involved yet more photography and an evening reception, but no more goals. Final score  :  Bride 1  -  Bridegroom 1.
There was just one moment of concern in the fixture - John split his trousers before the starting whistle, and had to go for emergency first-aid. (This is a secret - don't tell anyone!). The couple will live in North Wingfield: we wish them all of the very best in their married life. See you next season, John.

Ben Lamb announces new Men 1XI appointments
Belper Hockey Club has been busy preparing for the new season and can announce several key appointments. Outgoing Captain Mark Lamb has been replaced by Richard Kitchen and Neill Slane has taken on the role as Vice Captain. Although Mark Lamb intends to continue playing 1st XI hockey he felt that it was the right time for a change. "I've been Captain for the past 4 season's and feel it is time for a fresh face, I am still to continue playing and will assist Richard in this new role but the time is right for me to step down" commented Mark. Mark has been a loyal servant to Belper since arriving from Hobart, Tasmania. He has playing in for the club since Belper started in the National League and become a very popular figure around the club. "Marko has been awesome over the years. He is a natural leader and his help and guidance of the 1st XI over the years has been tremendous" "He is a credit to the club and himself and although he is stepping down, I am delighted he has agreed to continue playing" added Ben Lamb, Head Coach.
Richard is one of Belper's longest serving 1st XI member's and has been Vice Captain for the past couple of seasons. Lamb was quick to appoint Richard after Mark stood down. "Richard is the only man to lead Belper, it was an easy appointment to make." "Richard was very instrumental last season and I feel he is the right person to lead our charge back to the Premier Division." "He is a cool customer and a tough competitor, I feel he has all the attributes to become a natural leader" said Lamb. Neill Slane also enters as Vice Captain after a very successful season on the pitch last term. With his attitude and experience this is also a good appointment and signals Belper's intent for the future. "Neill was great last season and I am delighted to have him on board." "I feel he'll provide excellent backup for Richard".
The final key appointment is of Graham Joyce to the position of Player/Assistant Coach. Graham comes to the club with a wealth of experience having played in the Premier Division for several years and also over in Holland for a number of seasons. Graham joins Lamb on the coaching team, although Lamb is hoping he might also be available to play. "Graham primarily comes in as Assistant Coach as various injuries have prevented him from playing the last couple of seasons." "He has had a very positive impact on myself and the guys in the short time he has been with us". "He is an excellent acquisition and I'm delighted he has agreed to help us." "Watching him in training, he still has the class and quality to play at this level and I'm hoping we might squeeze some games out of him, but we'll see".
With pre-season around the corner and more new appointments/signings expected in the next couple of weeks, Belper are certainly getting geared up for a promotion push in the next campaign.

Slazenger are launching a grassroots scheme looking to support young players at all levels. The Team Slazenger initiative offers a wide range of support packages from free kit to heavily discounted product.
Slazenger has developed the ‘Team Slazenger’ support package to help assist aspiring young hockey talent. The sport lies with youth and it is our aim to support the future Club, International and Olympic players. There are 3 support packages on offer, Silver, Gold and Platinum. Each package is aimed to provide complete hockey support for the athlete. You’ll receive sticks, luggage, shoes, shin pads and protective gloves. We’ve also three special packages for goal keepers.
As a member you’ll not only be given access to the best hockey products, but places on Slazenger coaching clinics run by the UK’s top international players and coaches, guest invites to key international matches and be the very first to test and use new stick technologies developed by the Slazenger product team.
Please fill in the attached form and send it to the address on the form. Click here for more details...

After the disappointment of the U13 Mini Hockey championships the Belper Boys wanted to put silverware in the trophy cabinet again, so the invitation to an U12 Mini Hockey tournament at Lichfield was welcome. Teams from Wolverhampton and Worcester came together with three teams from Lichfield. Beeston and Cannock, unfortunately, couldn’t make it (They must have heard we were coming!) As usual the Boys started slowly, but by the end of the afternoon were playing some attractive hockey. Lozza worked hard on the sideline rotating players every few minutes and gradually building the structure of the play. Goals were worked up from all areas of the pitch, but conversion rate of short corners still needs to be improved. Apart from Nik in goal, everyone changed position and everyone scored, Alex 11, George 7, Nick 7, Toby 7, Jacob 4, Conor 2 and Chris 1. Playing at their own age level the team had no trouble showing that they are still champions. Winning their games 8-0, 13-0, 4-0, 8-0 and 6-1, the Belper Boys came away with the tournament shield, with Lichfield District in second place and Lichfield St Chad’s School third.
Many thanks to Lozza for coaching the team, and to parents, grandparents, brothers and sisters for their support.

Celebrations at the Mini Hockey Presentation Evening
By Judy Hooker
The Sunday morning Mini Hockey Club formally brought their season to a close with an awards presentation night on Friday. Around 50 children, between six and eleven years old, and their families, packed into the Clubhouse to receive their Stix Skills awards. Then, Liz English, ably assisted by Sarah, Emily and Becki, presented the Little Stars trophies to the youngest group of 6 and 7 year olds. Richard Taylor, on behalf of himself and Mark Minion, presented the U9 Group with their Best Players and Best Attendee trophies. Lindsey Shaw, Andrew Hartley and Wayne Murfin presented the Most Improved Players, Players Player and Managers Player of the season trophies to the U11 Boys A, B and C teams and the U11Girls team.
All the hard work of the coaches and players on Sunday mornings, over the years, has again been rewarded by the tremendous success of the U11 Boys A Team this season. Having won the County and Midlands Mini Hockey Championships, they now go on to compete in the National Finals being held at Highfields on 18th May. Supporters will be most welcome as the boys try to bring the trophy back to Belper for the second successive year, as the best team in the country. This is the ultimate goal of the Mini Hockey section.
Many thanks to all the coaches, helpers, young players and parents who have turned out every Sunday, come rain or shine, to ensure the continuing success of the Mini Hockey section of Belper Hockey Club. We wish all the Yr 6 children well as they move up to the Junior sections and hope to see everyone else in September.

Belper u11 boys win Midlands mini-hockey title
By Lindsey Shaw
After a exciting and very long day Belper under 11 boys won the Midlands Regional Tournament in fine style on Sunday. The figures of played 5 won 5 with 8 goals for and 0 against confirm that we were deserved winners but it did not seem that straightforward to all watching as we only played really well in patches before the final.
Our first match was a comfortable 4-0 win against Ludlow with Luke Rowbottom netting a fine hatrick to get us on our way. We then faced a well organised, very aggressive and competent Cannock side in the key game of the pool. For the first 7 or 8 minutes we were under siege and defended with all behind the ball. Alex Bird, Ben Clague and Jake Taylor had a massive battle on our right flank and were grateful to Harry’s cool head to keep a clean sheet. Gradually we weathered the storm and after a breakaway on the right from lightening Luke Clark Luke R scored a deserved winner with 2 minutes to go. With qualification assured we went to sleep against Bromsgrove Prep relying on some superb keeping from Harri to keep a 1-0 lead as the defence went missing.
On to the semis where we faced Great Houghton Prep a not skilled but awkward side. Ben Clague and Luke Clark had their best game on the right wing and probed constantly. Dom Bennett, playing yet another position at left mid with ease, was very dangerous on the left and our persistence was rewarded when Luke R again scored after a smooth right wing move with 5 minutes to go. The final was a rematch against Cannock who again came out all guns blazing. Yet again we were resolute in defence with great tackling on the edge of the D from Alex, Angus and Ben. Again Cannock faltered and after a great ball out from Angus Dom Bennett raced down the left and crossed superbly for the winner from Luke. We coolly played out the last 2 minutes to become champions and went over to watch the girls win a cracking final too.
I cannot pick a man of the match as all 8 players were fantastic and gave it their absolute all. Thank you to all the parents and supporters who cheered us on. Special thanks to Simon Clague and Tim Barlow for their coaching in the build up and on the day and to our "researcher’’ Wayne for his invaluable help. Look forward to seeing you all along with the girls in the finals on 18th May.

Nailers end season with a win against Sheffield University Bankers
By Caroline Jones (courtesy of Derby Evening Telegraph) 9th April, 2008
It took until the last game of the season but Belper finally called a halt to their EHL losing streak as they beat Men's Division One basement club Sheffield University Bankers. The seventh-placed Nailers won comfortably against their visitors, finishing the game 6-3 up to break a run of six successive defeats. Tom Leatherland broke the deadlock after 17 minutes and further goals from Sam McCambridge and James Hewitt followed in the next two minutes. Bankers pulled a goal back in the 33rd minute but the Nailers increased their lead as Hewitt scored his second and captain Mark Lamb was on hand to net Belper's fifth. Leatherland wrapped up the scoring, while Sheffield only reduced the arrears with two goals in the closing stages.
Belper conclude the season in the same fourth-from-bottom spot they have occupied since the Christmas break but assistant manager Graham Joyce believes the side have given themselves something to build on next season. He said: "It was a positive performance, particularly after coming off the back of six losses. "The guys seemed particularly focused because it was the final match of the season and they performed as such. "They seemed nervous in the first 15 minutes but once they had opened the scoring, their confidence grew. "In previous weeks, they have been fantastic but just not had the rub of the green. Against Sheffield, they not only created opportunities but managed to finish them. "There was a spell of Sheffield pressure that they had to ride at the beginning but, once they were past that, they settled fine. "Next season is important and we're looking forward to it. "This game was great motivation and manager Ben Lamb is keen to step up a level in training and in games. "The squad have proved that they can compete at a high level. They are a young, strong side and next season we need to set out to win this league."

Men 5XI end championship winning season with a 2-0 victory over Burton
The last game of the season saw us at Woodlands with a morning game to warm up for the night to come. Our normal team and copious amounts of deep heat saw us take to the pitch chomping at the bit. We started well with an injury to "Deano (goal machine) Kidd" dropping us to ten men in the first five minutes. This was to be the norm for the day, at one stage in the game we were down to nine players with our illustrious coach (Rossi) taking a stick across the thumb resulting in the standard trip to the local A&E department. As he had begun to feel left out Clarky (Marlboro man) pulled up with a strain as well. All the other team members survived unscathed, I think it was due to us being much younger than our injured teammates. A point must be made at this stage to note that young "Johnny (the legend) Ellio" was up for playing two games as he thought that this was a repeat of last weekend. Back to the game, we played some run of the mill hockey with the forwards not delivering as they should but we still managed two goals, One from "Dom (the whippet) Taylor" and another from a static Deano who stood on the spot and deflected the ball goal wards, on his third attempt he hit the jackpot. 2-0 that will do nicely!
A good finish to the season and a time for me to say a big thanks to the following. All who have umpired for us especially Robin who did more than his fair share of the games. The whole team who gave real commitment all season. Pete Gordon for his man of the match awards and his talcum powder. Rossi who needs to take the credit as he runs the team on the day. Simon for his skills in the nets and at the fine art of the fines committee.
All the younger players who have continued to improve as the season went on. Hopefully one last outing this year for the CHAMPIONS the Centenary Ball on the 21st June. Let me know lads who is coming so we can sort out a table. Have a good one. Laird

'Awesome' Nailers win praise if not the points from Lamb
By Kerry Slack (courtesy of Derby Evening Telegraph) 5th March, 2008
Belper crashed to their third successive EHL defeat but coach Ben Lamb still described their performance as "awesome". The Nailers' latest setback came at the hands of Men's Division One leaders Southgate, who beat the seventh-placed side 2-0 on home soil. Two goals in 10 minutes sealed the visitors' fate, with Rick Gay and Dan Shingles finding the back of the net before the interval. To make matters worse, Belper were without a couple of their first team players. Captain Mark Lamb was unavailable, along with Luke Wardell, who was still ruled out with a hamstring injury, leaving Martin Beckford to slot in at left-back
But Lamb believes there were plenty of positives to take out of the game. He said: "It was one of our best performances and we played really well - we just didn't have the rub of the green. "We were awesome. The display was much better than our previous two games and for 60 minutes we were very good. "Southgate's goals were quite fortuitous and, considering they are the top side of the division, there were spells when we made them look quite ordinary. "The lads adopted a never-say-die attitude. It would have been so easy to make excuses before the game had started, with players missing, but they battled hard. "Even in the last two to three minutes, when we were 2-0 down, they created chances and still tried to force the game. "Their coach felt we were unlucky not to get something out of the game, which shows you how well we played. "We may have lost but I believe that performance is something to build on, particularly for next season."
The Nailers now turn their attention to a home game against Old Loughtonians, who currently lie second in the division, on Sunday. "Based on our Southgate performance, I reckon we can give Loughtonians a run for their money," said Lamb. "We trained incredibly hard last week and if we do that again and replicate last weekend's display, we'll have a happy season. "Loughtonians are a tough, strong side and incredibly experienced. They beat us comfortably at their ground last time we met but we created lots of chances. "The scoreline was 5-1 and I did feel that it flattered them. I am upbeat about the match and I think we can beat them at Belper."
The Nailers are currently 10 points above third-from-bottom side Chelmsford but require nine points to catch up with Bournville, currently in sixth place. Taking all this into account, Lamb is now looking ahead to next season. He said: "It's a bizarre situation because we seem to be stuck in limbo at the moment. "If I were to make a bold prediction, I would guess that we will finish in the same position we are in now. "With four games left to play, it's an opportunity for the team to try new things and work towards next season. "I'll be looking to give all the squad a reasonable run out and reward those players who have patiently been waiting for an opportunity to play. "The team spirit is high at the moment and it's important that that remains."

Belper u11 boys win Derbyshire mini-hockey title
By Lindsey Shaw
Belper boys continued their fine tradition in this tournament by winning for the fourth year in succession. The victory was hard fought given that there were six ten minute group games followed by a twenty minute final for the top two teams. By the end everyone, players and supporters alike, were exhausted.
We started brightly if a little nervously with comfortable wins 2-0 and 4-0 against Longstone and Barton. The highlight of these games was a clever flick over the excellent Barton goalie’s head into the top corner by Dominic Bennett. We then played Belper Reds who fought hard but were not yet able to compete physically and ran out winners 2-0 . Captain Luke Rowbottom scored a fine goal worked from the back and Ben Clague made the points safe with quick hands on a rebound. Then came the crucial game against Burton who are a tough physical side playing a break away game with two good strikers. Alex Bird man marked the Burton ‘’number 26’’ danger man brilliantly foregoing his normal attacking style to totally neutralise their goal threat. The rest of the team driven on by Ben Clague and Angus Shaw pressed Burton hard and high up the pitch running out winners 2-0 with  cracking goals from Luke Rowbottom and Dom Bennett. Advantage Belper. Our final two league games were won comfortably 2-0 against a determined Belper White and 4-0 against a young Buxton team.
In the final Alex again superbly marked Burton’s number 26 and although they tried to get forward through other players Jake Taylor dealt with every threat in a cool calm manner,playing his best game of the day. With our defence secure we attacked hard through Ben, Angus Luke and Dominic hitting the post in the first minute and eventually  scoring a beautiful winner after an excellent passing move  through Jake and Ben and crashed into the net by Dominic. In the second half we tired but Burton’s efforts to man mark Luke proved fruitless as he ran them ragged up front and we tackled for our lives in midfield.
In my notes I have not mentioned Rory Barnden who came on every league games in four different positions no less and linked in straight away, playing some excellent hockey. His most confident display to date under pressure. Harri in goal had a quiet morning  but I think he knows his day is about to come in the next round. He is developing the confidence in his game and on pitch personality needed to play at a much higher level.
Thankyou to all parents and supporters and wish us luck at the Midlands finals on April 27th.
Photo: u11's in action against Burton HC in the final. Left: Luke Rowbottam get's behind the Burton defence. Right: Ben Clague and Angus Shaw celebrate the win.

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Nailers draw a blank as visitors Brooklands take all three points
Having weathered the visitors pressure during most of the first half with skipper Mark Lamb and goalkeeper Neill Slane in top form, Belper Men 1X1 were fortunate to be only one goal down at the interval. The Belper midfield of Richard Kitchen, James Hewitt, Chris Hall and Jack Wells came more in to the game during the second half but the attack looked out of sorts in the final third of the pitch and were unable to pull a goal back despite several short corners and goal scoring opportunities.

Sunday 10th February - U13 goal fest at Buxton
By Judy Hooker
A glorious Sunday morning saw the Belper U13 A squad travelling to sunny Buxton. Team: Nick P, Jacob, Toby, Alex R, George, Chris, Nik T (GK)
The first game against a Chesterfield team, supplemented by a few extremely large 14 year old boys, was a relatively quiet start. Two goals from Alex in the first half secured the result allowing more free flowing play and another two goals from Nick in the second half. The only problems were created by the sheer momentum of the much bigger boys!
A second game against Newark allowed the Belper boys to settle into a routine of good passing and unselfish play. Alex and George worked well together at the front, switching from side to side creating opportunities and covering for each other. This game provided plenty of attacking short corner practise, though not always successful. This is an area that still needs some work with the current line-up. No short corners were conceded so this area of play was not explored. Chris had a particularly good game, providing Alex with no end of openings down the left side. The final result in this game was a pleasing 6-0 (George 3, Toby 2, Alex).
The final game was against Buxton. The boys tried not to let the, sometimes interesting umpiring decisions interrupt their flow, running out easy winners 9 (I think) – 0 (George 4, Alex 3, Nick, Toby).  
All in all this was a good team effort. The defence was not really tested, but Jacob, Chris and Nik didn’t put a foot, or stick, wrong. Alex, as always, gave 110%, everywhere, equalling George as top scorer. Toby and Nick were confident in midfield, distributing play and providing a constant stream of opportunities for the forwards.

Was it or was it not a goal?
Sam McCambridge slammed in a brilliant winning goal for the Men 1XI against Chelmsford on Sunday - and the action was captured by intrepid camera operator Paul Lawrence - but the question is - was the ball over shoulder height when struck? To view match report Click here for details...

Disappointing cup result for U18 boys
By Ben Mills
The U18s had to play at Woodlands due to the pitches at Belper being block booked for other junior matches even before the draw for this round had been made. This meant that they had to play without coach Mark Lamb and for most of the second half Stevie Tee both of whom had to play first team at Belper. This meant that Belper were keen to make a good start and they were not helped when a simply ridiculous short corner was awarded against them by the Richmond umpire and coach in the first minute, Sam Browne cleared the ball out of the but it hit a Richmond ankle and the short was awarded for lifted ball (something which is not even an offense in hockey - the foul is dangerous play and it is hard to see the danger in a ball hitting an ankle at a fairly tame pace) but anyway the short was converted and from that point Belper were always chasing the game. After 15 minutes it looked like they were going to create a good opportunity to draw level when a Ben Mills aerial was about to land on the stick of an unmarked Rich Cassidy on top D’. A Richmond defender saw the danger and reached up above his head to prevent the ball reaching Rich and was therefore sin binned for his crime. He had achieved his goal though as Belper got only a free-hit rather than a great goal scoring opportunity. The home side failed to capitalise on the one-man advantage but continued to dominate possession for the first half and got their rewards when Ricky Ho-Chaw knocked in on the back post after a short corner.
At the break Belper were determined to come out and improve on their first half performance as they needed to pass the ball more in the attacking third. They got off to the worst possible start as they conceded an early goal. Again Belper dominated the possession but did not create enough. Eventually the pressure told though and they drew level after Rich Cassidy dribbled and shot at a short-corner. When a freak goal went in at for Richmond with less than ten minutes to go Belper were always up against it, particularly given that they had now lost forward Douggie Campbell to injury when he was struck by a high strike (this one was dangerous). The Richmond defence held strong and stopped Belper creating any more chances. We wish them all the best for the rest of the tournament but for future rounds you do need to address the problem of your coach umpiring as it is unacceptable for the umpire to be advising the players with tactics during the game.

U15 boys put up a spirited display against Beeston
By Jerry Sharp
Belper U!5 boys played Beeston U15 in the 3rd round of the EH Cup on 3rd February. With only half the players up to age the team acquitted itself admirably. The final 6 -0 score line does not do justice to the determination, commitment and endurance shown by the whole side.
Beeston, who came second in the Cup last year, came to Belper expecting an easy victory and were somewhat surprised to discover themselves under sustained attack for the first 10 – 15 minutes. If one of the Belper’s early short corners had gone in the outcome may well have been different.
Inspired by Lozza’s pre match talk (think Henry V at Agincourt) Belper were initially successful in inhibiting Beeston from playing their natural rapid attacking game. Unfortunately Beeston’s speed, combined with their bulk, and skill in front of goal were Belper’s ultimate undoing.
However but for the fact that Beeston had an England U16 Goalkeeper Belper would normally have expected to have scored after some of their penetrating attacks from defence which nearly came to fruition on several accessions.
The half time 2-0 score line did not accurately reflect the play. The fact that our players started to tire in the second half was only natural and this coupled with the endurance of the older Beeston side resulted in the final goal tally.
The large supporting crowd appreciated the skills on display, and while they found some of the umpiring decisions a source of intense interest and speculation, an enjoyable if cold evening was generally had by all.
The continued improvement in the side from the early days of the season is very gratifying and shows how the Tuesday (Ben & Lozza) and Thursday (Tim & Ian) training sessions are bearing fruit. The fact that Belper will have some 7 players eligible for next year’s competition bodes well for future forays into this fierce caldron of hockey competition!
The whole event was capped off by the now legendary post match feast of culinary delights supplied by Sally and Judy (domestic goddesses and general managerial engine room duo).
We wish Beeston good luck in the forthcoming round(s) of the Cup and feel confident that their enthusiasm, tenacity and moreover their style of play will ultimately be rewarded.
Squad: Nick Trifunovic, Alex Field, Ross Duncan, Alex Robey, Alex Goodwin, Nick Pankhurst, James Cozens, David Boddy, Jacob Bullock, Max Spalton, Joe Sharp, Curtley Reed, Toby Hooker, Fraser Brown, Chris Bell

Belper Men Centenary 2008 - email received from Peter Wrigley
Much like Mickey Davis I just happened to look on the Belper HC website, partly out of curiosity to see how the club is faring this season but also to see whether any centenary celebrations were planned. It was brilliant to see his message on there – loads of memories came flooding back! I had remembered the centenary date as I was, until a couple of years ago, the proud owner of a glass tankard that had been produced to celebrate the 75th anniversary back in 1983. Unfortunately the tankard met a rather sudden and catastrophic demise on impact with our kitchen floor after many proud years of service.
1983 was, as I recall, the end of my first season of 1st XI hockey – that season was also the first time for several years we had won the County Championship (in the Autumn of 1982) with a hard-fought semi-final win over fierce rivals Derby HC (including a first half penalty save by Mickey Kirk). I think we came from 1-0 down to win 2-1having spent part of the game down to 10 men after our maverick centre forward (you know who I mean!) had objected to the award of the penalty in no uncertain terms! The final was against Burton HC (who had surprisingly beaten Chesterfield in the other semi) which we won rather more comfortably by 4-1.
I think the team that season was Mickey “Kirkey” Kirk in goal, Al “Daws” Dawson at right back (also in his first season with the club), Phil “Palf” Palfreyman at left back, and Kev “Fireman Kev” Shirley centre back and John “Ellio” Elliot at sweeper. Midfield was Roger “Lich” Lichfield on the right, yourself in the middle, Stewart “Stewie” Charlton (captain) on the left. Upfront were myself on the right, Jon “JB” Barry at centre forward, and Phil “The Sloth” Lowe on the left. Following the cup win we went through two or three rounds of the Midlands Cup Competition before going out, I think at the quarter-final stage, away in a monsoon at Harborne where we had played out of our skins to get to 2-1 up with only 15 mins or so left but conceded 3 goals in the last 15 mins to go out against a very strong Premier Division side.
I still think back on my days with Belper, effectively until the end of 1985-86 with a couple of subsequent ‘guest’ appearances, as among my happiest hockey times. Having moved to London in 1986 and spent time with the likes of Hampstead and Teddington I can honestly say that nowhere had such a tight-knit family togetherness as Belper HC.
As Mickey Davis referred to in his message we had great times as a squad – I remember travelling in JB’s bus to away games and doing several laps of opposition club car parks with Bruce Springsteen’s ‘No Surrender’ blaring out of the windows at full volume – and then we’d play them off the park! It was great fun and when we were on form we played some bloody good hockey!
In subsequent seasons we had Mickey Davis to replace Kev Shirley at centre back, Gary “Nocker” Nock stepped into Palf’s very large shoes at left back, Nige “Ed” Timmins (Nige wasn’t hard enough for us so, to his mother’s disgust(!), we renamed him “Mean Ed”!) replaced the “ageing” Roger Lich at inside right, and Ian “Goodie” Goodacre came in on the left.
Possibly a bit of a long-shot but I just wondered whether you’re in touch with many of the other guys from those days and whether we might get some sort of a ‘fringe’ event together at the time of the centenary celebration? Even more of a long shot – it would be brilliant to get some sort of match organized?! I’d be very happy to help organize something if you think this might be a ‘runner’??
Finally, mindful of John Lich’s request for photos, cuttings etc I’ll see if I can dig out my old scrapbook which had a few team photos and newspaper cuttings in it.
Pete Wrigley

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Belper Men 3XI win seven goal thriller
A close and entertaining game on Saturday saw the men 3XI win their league encounter against Worceter HC 4-3.

Men get league preparation off to a positive start
By Ben Lamb - Men 1XI Manager
The Men's 1st XI started their league preparation on Sunday 20th January with games against Barford Tigers & Doncaster although not at Belper but at the pitch in Wirksworth. The pitch at the Meadows was deemed unplayable with too much standing water on it due to the amount of overnight rain so Wirksworth became the venue so the games could go ahead.
Belper started with a win against Barford Tigers 3-2, although a sloppy start saw them behind in the opening 10 minutes. It took 20 minutes or so for the Nailers to get into gear and as they started to dominate possession the game became to ebb the way of the boys from Belper. Plenty of chances were fashioned but it was the same old story as these chances were wasted. Finally the scores were levelled after a corner strike from Hewitt hit a defender's foot on the line. Hewitt himself stepped up to convert the stroke. Half time score read 1-1. The second half started much brighter for the Nailers and it wasn't long before they took control. With plenty of possession and good pressing all over the pitch the Barford backline were struggling to get the ball out. It was a mistake from a defender that presented Sam McCambridge with the ball at the top of the circle to smash home to give Belper the lead. Belper added to their lead with a further goal from Tom Leatherland and this took the game away from Barford. Barford did manage a consolation goal at the end to leave the final score 3-2 in favour of Belper.
Due to the changed pitch arrangements Barford were only able to fufil one of the fixtures they were down to play. This left the Nailers with a 20 minute rest period before taking on Doncaster in three 30 minute periods. Once the game got underway Belper started very brightly, pressing high up the field and good in possession. With Mark Lamb away Luke Wardell, making his 2nd appearance after re-signing at Christmas, looked assured and in control at the back along with Mills and Tee. They were able to transfer the ball round the back and set the midfield away at regular intervals. Doncaster were certainly not at their best, but you could see glimses that they were a quailty side. They turned the ball over frequently and Belper were able to dictate the play. Although both sides had opportunities, these were squandered. Both teams penalty corner routines were embarrassing, and plenty of work on the training grounds will be required. So the game ended 0-0 after the second period. It was the final period that saw the game come to life. With Belper still pushing to take the lead and seemingly in control of the game, Doncaster struck on the break. They quickly added a second as the tired legs and minds seemed to have taken the game away from the Nailers. Sam McCambridge scored an excellent deflection late on, but it was Doncaster who scored again at the end to leave the result 1-3.
After the game Richard Kitchen, captain in the absence of Mark Lamb, added "Although it was a good start, we lost the last of the games 3-1 and we can't be happy with that". "Although we played well, unless we win the matches we play we can't settle for just playing well". "We need to set the standard now, which I felt we did and we need to stay above it, the games next week will be very important".

Foremarke Invitational Boys U13 Mini Hockey Tournament – Saturday 12th January 2008
By Judy Hooker - u13 'A' Manager
On Saturday the U13 boys 'A' team took on some of the best U13 teams from around the country. The first game was a hard fought 0-0 draw with Old Buckenham Hall (Suffolk) followed by a 1-1(Alex Robey) draw with Malsis School from North Yorkshire. We recognised several of their players from the Mini Hockey National Finals playing for Ben Rhydding HC. Both games were closely contested and all teams demonstrated a high standard of hockey.
The final league stage game against Foremarke B allowed the Belper Boys to get into their stride, slotting 6 goals (James, Toby(2), Nick P(2), George) past a very active keeper. This gave Belper a second place finish in the Group and a semi-final against Trent College, winners of the other Group. This proved to be another closely contested game with the teams matching each other move for move. Belper came closest to scoring but the umpire deemed the ball to have crossed the backline before going into the goal, so finishing even at full time with no score. Towards the end of extra time Trent punished Belper with a breakaway Golden Goal and it was all over.
The young Belper Boys, Nik T, Jacob, Toby, Alex R, Chris, George, Nick P, and James Blythe (who stood in at short notice for his ‘A’ squad debut), and all actually u12s, should be very proud of their achievement at this Tournament as they are unlikely to meet any better teams this season. Many thanks to Ian Lane for standing in as Coach and Umpire and to all the parent, siblings and dogs who supported us on an exciting afternoon of hockey.

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First Team Friendlies on 20th and 27th January
The men's first team will start their post christmas training tonight (Thursday 3rd January) at Duffield Squash Club where Coach Ben Lamb is looking for them to run off the christmas turkey and mince pies. The squad will then move outdoors on Sunday 13th when they travel to Denstone School for a training day. The following week on Saturday 20th January they have arranged for a big day of hockey at Belper with a three-way friendly event between Belper, Barford Tigers and Doncaster. The first team will take on Barford at 11:30 and then the two visiting sides will play each other at 13:45 before Belper round the day off against Doncaster at 16:00.
They will then play two friendlies the following Sunday 27th January against Leek at 11:30 and then Telford and Wrekin at 14:30. All the teams involved are National League sides so it is a great oppurtunity for the squad to get a work out against some good quality opposition and also for spectators to see lots of exciting hockey at the club.

Belper Men 1XI Mid-Season Training Programme & Fixtures
Details as follows for Men 1XI training and mid-season fixtures. Please make every effort to be available for training and playing in January. This is a very important month for us and we need to be fully prepared for when we take on Chelmsford and then Guildford in our opening 2 fixtures. You don’t need me to remind you how important these games are. If you are unavailable I need to be informed as soon as possible.
Thursday 3rd January 2008: Fitness Training @ Duffield Squash Club – 7pm. [directions available]
Tuesday 8th January 2008: Fitness Training @ Duffield Squash Club – 7pm.
Thursday 10th January 2008: Fitness Training @ Duffield Squash Club – 7pm.
Sunday 13th January 2008: Training Day & Match @ Denstone College – Meet 11am, Belper.
Tuesday 15th January 2008: Training @ Belper Hockey Club – 7pm.
Thursday 17th January 2008: Training @ Belper Hockey Club – 7.30pm.
Sunday 20th January 2008: Matches vs. Doncaster & TBC @ Belper Hockey Club – Meet 10am.
Tuesday 22nd January 2008: Training @ Belper Hockey Club – 7pm.
Thursday 24th January 2008: Training @ Belper Hockey Club – 7.30pm.
Sunday 27th January 2008: Matches vs. Leek & Telford & Wrekin @ Belper Hockey Club – Meet 10am.
Tuesday 29th January 2008: Training @ Belper Hockey Club – 7pm.
Thursday 31st January 2008: Training @ Belper Hockey Club – 7.30pm
Sunday 3rd February 2008: EHL Fixture vs. Chelmsford @ Belper Hockey Club – Meet 11.30am
Again, if you have any problems regarding these arrangements then please feel free to speak to me. Although we have 3 fitness sessions planned at the beginning of the month it is vitally important that you continue to do your own fitness throughout January. If you guys stay off the heavy drinking, I’ll leave the butter alone!
If I don’t see you all, have a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!
Ben Lamb - Head Coach: (M) 07786 853502 (W) 01788 551400 (@) ben-lamb@tiscali.co.uk
Mark Lamb – Captain: (M) 07866 365060 (@) mlamb09@hotmail.com

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