2020 has been an interesting year for Mendip Hockey Club to say the least. In March, with just one or two games left in the 19/20 season, Mendip had three of their five teams sitting top of the table and looked set to win their leagues, before COVID put a stop to everything. Thankfully, those in first were given their titles and promotions, but a true celebration for this great achievement was cruelly snatched from the Club.

It was seven months before Mendip would be allowed to play competitive hockey again, but the squads did their best to keep spirits and fitness levels high. A group ‘Strava’ and various challenges were set up where, even in isolation, the competitive nature of the players remained! Training resumed in August with various measures in place and preparations began for the start of the 20/21 season, albeit later than normally scheduled.

Two games into the new season and ‘Lockdown 2’ brings the season and training to a halt once more. The newly-promoted Ladies First Team only managed to play one game in the Premier Division 2B before lockdown, due to a postponement. Their opener against rivals, Shepton Mallet, ending 2-0 against Mendip, with Captain April Callow the stand-out performer.

The Men’s First Team, also promoted into Central 1, got the campaign started brilliantly, with two wins against some tough opposition. Their first game against Bridgwater saw them win 3–1, with their second match versus newly-relegated Clifton Robinsons ending even better with the score 4–1. Will Lawton and Caleb Rowe both earned Man of the Match awards for the games respectively.

Another team which only managed the one game before lockdown, the Ladies Second team, also faced Shepton Mallet. After a tougher pre-season build-up for the Ladies, Mendip managed to gain a solid point in a 1–1 draw against a good side. “Stand-in” Captain, Connie Glover, played well and was given Player of the Match.

The Men’s Second Team faced life in a new Division after being promoted to West Central 1. However, both of their games have unfortunately ended with losses. 4–1 and 3–1 versus Old Bristolians and Clifton Robinsons, respectively, but confidence remained high. Youngster Daniel Holliwell scored his first competitive goal in the league opener, whilst Edward Whittaker scored his first in eight years in the second game.

It was a tougher start for the Ladies Third Team when they played Bristol University in the first game of the season. Nothing seemed to work for Mendip, with the score line in double figures against them. However, in their following game against North Somerset, they performed much better and narrowly lost 2–0. The Player of the Match awards went to Lula Le Page and Colbie Roberts.

With the country in lockdown again, Mendip must wait again for their season to resume. They are confident that, when it does begin again, the 20/21 season will be a good one for both players and supporters.

Follow Mendip Hockey club for all their updates at @MendipHC on socials.

Edward Whittaker