Bill Greenwood has been in touch with the latest update on the annual Over 75s tournament which runs alongside a couple of other competitions for ‘Ancients’ and ‘Aspirants’.

What started as a simple Regional championship with just 5 teams is becoming a 3 division event - Regionals (still awaiting the "Official" cachet), Ancients and Aspirants.
We have trophies for Regionals and Aspirants.
Aspirants are expected to be around the 70 age group and Ancients should be a bit older, but it is more important to get teams of approximately equal skill levels together.
At present it looks as if there will be 4 regions battling for the championship - East, Midlands, South and West. North, apparently, cannot raise a team.
The Ancients will comprise Alliance, Over 80s, LX Ladies (2 teams), Kettering Ladies 4s and Wales Over 75s (still to be confirmed).
Aspirants have had 2 disappointments as Italy have decided that Argentina is more attractive than Wellingborough (can you believe it??)and Scotland are concentrating on preparation for the European Cup. This leaves Wales 70s, LX Ladies, LX men, Khalsa, Kettering under 14 boys and Kettering 4s. They will play a round robin competition and finish up with a play-off, 6th v 5th, 4th v 3rd and 2nd v 1st.
As you can see, the age range of the Aspirants is huge, but it is a unique opportunity for our young players to pit their wits and skills against mature, experienced players, including several internationals who, in turn, have a rare chance to play against the real aspirants who are starting on their hockey life.
Other news is that the first ever over 80 internationals have been arranged for April 24 and 25. Holland v England; 2 internationals on consecutive days.

We are always grateful for anyone who can volunteer in any way shape or form to help this tournament run. If you can give up a couple of hours on any day please let a committee member or your captain know. Umpires, tea people, general helpers - just let us know and we can find you a job.