DEVELOPING PLYMOUTH'S HOCKEY TALENT OF THE FUTURE
DEVELOPING PLYMOUTH'S HOCKEY TALENT OF THE FUTURE
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Plymouth Evening Herald, 24 December 2002 Primary school pupils have been getting to grips with the basics of hockey this term thanks to the efforts of the Plymouth Hockey Development Group. Led by Jamie Oxley, a pool of qualified coaches have visited 10 primary schools in the city this term, teaching basics of the sport in curricular and extra-curricular activities. Youngsters in years five and six at Compton Primary School (pictured right) have received regular coaching for the last eight weeks as part of the scheme. Oxley was happy to report that the coaching had been a great success, with many pupils are keen to continue outside of school. He said: "I must admit they were so keen that they want an after-school club set up now, which is the next step. "They are really receptive kids, and just want to learn more." The scheme has been carried out with the co-operation of the Plymouth Primary Sports partnership and the city council's sports development unit. "The basis of what we have been doing is to give an introduction to basic skills, and then get them playing mini games," added Oxley. More than 250 young prospects took part in the primary schools festival in May this year, which saw 32 teams battle it out at Marjons. After coaching at schools in the Tamarside and Parkside areas of the city, there will be another festival at Marjons on June 5, 2003. Oxley said he was hoping to set up more tournaments to allow young players to gain some valuable experience of competition. He said: "Between now and May we're going to be doing a lot of events around the city so youngsters have a chance to play matches - which is what they want. "It's all part of our plans to move the sport on really." |