Ball Patrol Event at Tonbridge School

This was past weekend, 32 junior players from 10 different South East Hockey Club came together to operate as ball patrol across both pitches at Tonbridge School.

This was part of the England U16/U18 international series at Tonbridge School.

The objective wasn't just to "fill roles" - it was to expose players to a genuine international hockey environment:

• Close to elite age group players and coaches
• Understanding pace, standards, behaviours
• Experiencing how the game runs at the top level

It also deliberately mixed clubs, so players weren't just with their own teams - they were part of a wider South East group.

That's the real value:

• Builds connection across clubs
• Raises standards and ambition
• Gives players a reason to stay in the game

It's simple, but it's powerful - and it's exactly the kind of thing that makes a long-term difference and showcases the positive impact the funding offered by South East Hockey Futures has.