We are very fortunate to work with Simon Barden who gives a huge amount of his time to supporting this truly remarkable team and supporting the game. Recently Olympians, World Cup Rugby players and even the formidable Basil Brush have been jumping on video calls and inspiring team members and raising more awareness.
It’s odd at the moment. Nothing is “normal” and we are all finding things a bit tough at times. That’s why I am so proud to be part of Flyerz Hockey – we have been bringing a little bit of “new normal” to the homes of our members every Sunday since the lock down began.
Flyerz hockey is England Hockey’s name for hockey for those with physical or learning disabilities. It’s been part of Tunbridge Wells Hockey Club since 2017 and is very much at the heart of the club with players from all of our teams getting involved. Our players have even represented their country in European Parahockey winning Gold Belgium in 2019.
Due to the incredible resourcefulness of its lead coach – Francis Bridgeman – we have been able to share our Sunday morning sessions with some real superstars (although repeated requests from one of the coaches for Kylie Minogue to help with a session has, as yet, not been realised).
From the continued brilliant support of 2016 gold medal winners Kate and Helen Richardson-Walsh, the rather hard but fun warm up from England 2014 Rugby World Cup winning and Barbarian legend Danielle “Nolli” Waterman, through to the absolute joy of Basil Brush poking fun at the coaches our players have had a little bit of fun, exercise and most importantly social contact every week with the friends they have made through hockey. Everyone who has given up their time to help have been fantastic.
Getting involved in a program like this has been incredible fun and very rewarding. If you can get involved do!
If you like more information – connect with Simon Barden by LinkedIn