Doncaster Hockey Club duo get international recognition

The teenagers were both part of the first national squad of the 2018 cycle and featured in a three-match series with Holland.

West netted the winning goal in a 2-1 victory at Lilleshall National Sport Centre on Sunday.

The sides also drew 1-1 on Saturday, while Holland ran out 4-0 winners on Monday.

“As a club, this is quite an achievement - having two players representing at national level in the same team,” said spokesperson Jo West.

“It’s a great start to the England cycle from the Doncaster youngsters.

“In recent years both players, along with Annabel Bennett, have represented England at under 16 level.

“Annabel narrowly missed out on a place in the girls’ under 18 final squad, although she has been retained in the training squad.

“She will have another chance to make the squad next year as she is a year young.”

Doncaster have also been able to toast further recognition at international level.

“Our men’s and ladies’ first team coaches have been selected as head coaches for England’s men’s U40s and ladies’ U35s respectively,” said Jo.

“Alan Stoves and Gareth Ikin were selected as coaches earlier this year.

“Other members hoping for selection into national vets squads over the coming months are Jonathan Redfearn for the men’s over 35s, John Housham for the men’s over 60s and John Bostock for the men’s over 70s.”

Meanwhile, Doncaster’s under 10 and under 12 boys have both qualified for the North round of the National In2Hockey Cup which will be held in Leeds on Sunday April 15.