Over 60s

Playing in a faux full international tournament, all sides from O60 to O75 knew it was going to be a tough time.
Particular praise to the O60s – Chris Townson, take a bow – who started the nomination process with six players and ended up with a squad of mainly new members (who all played in the IGMHF, so no flash in the pan).

Over 65s

With new blood in the side, they played against full international squads and at worst only conceded three goals in a single game – but it wasn’t enough to avoid taking the wooden spoon.

Over 75s

Participated in the annual hockey tournament in Tilburg 2025.
We were, on average, by far the oldest team in our group (with four players over 80 years old).
Nevertheless, the team’s results were very satisfactory thanks to great team spirit during and after the games.

Group Results:
Germany 070 – Alliance 075 = 3:0
Scottish Thistles 070 – Alliance 075 = 2:0
LX 075 – Alliance 075 = 2:0
Alliance 075 – Germany 075 = 2:0
Alliance 075 – Dutch Lions 075 = 0:3

Placement Games:
Alliance 075 – Germany 070 = 0:1
Dutch Lions 070 – Alliance 075 = 0:1

In the end, we finished 5th (second to last), with a 1–0 win, thanks to an outstanding defensive performance in this last game and throughout the tournament.

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Over 70s – Tilburg

We had 18 people in the O70 squad including one injured player and a wife who acted as co-manager.
That left us with 16 players including two goalkeepers, although several were carrying injuries before the tournament.

• One player only played Day 1
• Two stronger players suffered muscle tears halfway through and missed three games

We lost all eight of our matches, although we had close results—losing by just one goal in half the games, including two matches against Over 65 opposition.

We had several weaker players but gave them equal pitch time, which at times cost us in team strength.

Our team had very few players who had played together before—unlike the opposition who had been playing more regularly as a squad.

Strong captainship by Paul ensured team morale and discipline were maintained on the field.
Management by Saskia and Peter ensured good close team cohesion off the pitch.
Good social enjoyment was had by all.

We assisted the Over 75s in several matches and had cover in turn from the O65s and 75s. Vocal support was given to the other Alliance teams, both ladies and men, wherever possible.

Ideally, we need stronger hockey results going forward, especially in the more competitive tournaments.