Testimonials

• Hockey

  In this section we have testimonials from some of our members about the club and what it has done for them a small insight into what it means to be a Spartan. 

  "I joined Team Surrey Spartans in 2013 and have captained the men’s hockey 1st XI since 2017. Spartans is a welcoming, club, who play hockey in a competitive, but also positive, and friendly manner. What sets Spartans apart is the range of people of all ages who are involved. The men’s teams are made up of a mix of both students at the University of Surrey, who provide youth, energy, enthusiasm and an enviable ability to play on a hangover, and non-students, who provide experience, tactical nous, and a better understanding of how to avoid a hangover! Spartans’ other strengths include its location at the heart of Guildford with easy access from the A3, and through the link with Surrey Sports Park, excellent coaching and some of the best facilities in Southern Hockey, including the first-rate astro and on-site bar for post-match food, drinks and celebrations. Happily, excuses to celebrate have been plentiful recently. In 2018/19, the men’s 1s completed an unbeaten season, winning Surrey Division 1 by 13 points, and racking up 96 goals in 22 games in the process. That means moving into the Surrey/Hampshire regional leagues for 2019/20, and the highest standard of hockey the club will have played to date. Both on and off the pitch the club is the strongest it has ever been, which also means there has better time to get involved. Both men’s teams train at 8.30pm on Thursdays, so please do get in touch and try us out." - Edward Willis - Men's 1st Team Captain.

   

   

  "After making the decision to fully commit to Team Surrey Spartans this past year I would say it was one of the best decisions made this year. After a strong season of a committed team we were able to firstly get promoted in to the regional league furthermore had an unbeaten season which many teams don’t ever achieve. Along with this each weekend was enjoyable having a welcoming environment which gave a solid break from university studies. 

  Being able to join a team with several new players that have greater experience than myself gave a chance to learn directly and improve as a player. As it pushed myself to prove what skills I had but also to realise skills that needed worked on. The team itself appreciates having several members of the university team play as it provides a fresh look in the team. 

  With Team Surrey Spartans being closely linked to SSP and the university team itself, it provides extra game time each week to bond with your university teammates but also play at a different dynamic pace and against teams of more experience. Gave me a chance to improve on my fitness whilst doing so. Which helped me in both university games and weekend games throughout the year." - Brett McConnell - Men's 1s Player & University HC Club Captain. 

   

   

  "Spartans is a club that encourages players of all abilities having 2 mens and ladies teams. It’s very inclusive with a base built of students. It builds closer friendship between players and teams meaning hockey is fun and enjoyable for everybody. For me Spartans was the reason I play hockey every week! Starting from not picking up a stick to being the captain for a year has been a massive journey for me, the club was very inclusive of me and wants the best for everybody and their hockey abilities." - James Allen - Men's 2s Captain