THERE have been plenty of reasons to celebrate for players both young and old at Alderley Edge Hockey Club over the summer.

Whether it is international selections, regional triumphs or recognition of the pathway created for youngsters, the run-up to the new season has been a busy one.

The club has been awarded “Talent Centre” accreditation by England Hockey – the only club in the region to hold such a distinction and one of only 20 to be awarded nationwide.

It recognises the quality of the club’s provision for its junior players and the environment it has created for their development.

A steady stream of youngsters have been making their way into the senior side – five of last year’s under 16s squad have recently made debuts for the men’s first team while many of the club’s boys and girls players have been selected for England Performance Centre squads for numerous summer tournaments.

It has also been a golden summer for Edge’s masters players, with Rebecca Ward and Sarah Hopkin helping England to victories in World Cup and Four Nations events.

England Masters regulars James Riley and Mark D’Souza also tasted success in their Four Nations tournament, which also included an international debut for Nigel Baker-Brian at the age of 65.

At the regional level, Edge players Andrew Wood, Kieren Hall, Simeon Mellor and Stefan Ray-Hills helped the north west men’s over 35s team to victory in a divisional tournament.

Further representative honours were received by Judith Offer, Heather Wienholt, Michelle Fletcher, Phil Benton, Neil Hanley, Ed Johnson, Joe Smart, Paul Buckingham and Nick Rudgard.

With the new league season on the horizon, training is now in full swing and new players of all standards are welcome to join.

For more information, visit the club website – aecc.org.uk/hockey