First of all I would like to thank a couple of members for their efforts last year. Chris Simcock did an excellent job in taking over the captaincy from Dafydd Jones and I think our strong league position is recognition of the advances we have made as a squad in improving our all round game. Our league position benefited from the hard work of Dave Robbins who has continued to improve individual skills and the team’s technical ability at training on Tuesdays. It is also true to say that this is particularly noticeable in the performances of individuals who have managed to attend training on a regular basis. This point is of high importance for the coming season and I therefore hope the whole squad manages to attend training on a regular basis.

I would also like to mention the contributions of some of the newer members of the squad. Tom Atkinson made a very valuable contribution to the 1st team last season and I hope he continues to make further improvements throughout the coming season. The welcome arrival of Ian Brown and Duncan Hill has added an extra dimension to our game (although off the field this can be a bad thing when drink is involved!). Paul Hans played consistently well all last season and has established himself well in the 1st team. Charlie Batho also made some good 1st team appearances and I am hoping he will continue making improvements. We also look forward to the return of Simon Middlemass, who will hopefully strengthen the midfield. Once again we have much potential in the team and promotion is our obvious goal, but we need to gel as a team early, and play consistently well until April if we are to fulfil our potential.

Last but certainly not least I would like to thank Steve Perkins and Rob Jackson who are leaving the club to follow their careers. They have both been very influential in the successes at Lytham and I am sure they will bring success to whichever team they go to. On a personal note: Steve. Remember to go easy on them in training (knee in the back of the leg!) and Rob, try to keep that fiery red-head temperament of yours under control (yellow card!).

I would like to see a lot of support early on in the season for Browny’s hair removal event which should be good fun. More details to follow…

Good luck to all of Lytham St Anne’s Hockey teams for the coming season.