AFTER securing promotion last season, Abergavenny Hockey club's ladies and men's First XI teams are busily preparing for a new season where the increase in playing standards will bring fresh challenges..

At the summer AGM the new appointment of Pete Bartlett as men's First XI captain was made, whilst the current Second XI captain Paul Harrington and ladies captain Becky Pass will remain in their posts.

This season will see a higher emphasis on the quality of training and coaching sessions. A number of individuals will be attending coaching courses in order to bring a much needed structure to the training sessions, which will consequently benefit all sections of the club.

New Chairman Andy Banks said "I am very excited about the new season. If we can continue to compete at the higher levels then our standards will no doubt improve and the club will benefit as a whole.

"We are continuing to invest in our commitment to the junior section to help provide quality players for the future. I also feel that all sections of the club have become more united and the general motivation in the club is high".

As always, the club is looking to attract new players to all sections of the club. With a friendly and sociable atmosphere everyone will be warmly welcomed regardless of skill level or experience.

There are two senior training sessions per week, at 8pm on Tuesdays and Thursdays, to which everyone is welcome. These are now both up and running at the Leisure Centre Astroturf.

The Junior section of the club will be led by Rebecca Bushrod and Tom Johnson. A number of helpers will split the groups up based on skill levels and,or age.

Although it's always down to the individual and, or parental choice, a guideline age for starting training is nine (year five), and of course both boys and girls are welcome.

Junior training starts on Tuesday September 9, from 7pm to 8pm.

If you have any queries then contact club chairman Andy Banks on (07967) 552823.