Starting in Valencia, David Goodfield was selected for England’s first ever FIH Hockey Pro League squad which took place on the 4th and 5th of February. It was England’s first ever Pro League appearance as they replace Great Britain from last year’s line-up. A side full of fresh and returning faces played Spain who finished bottom of last year’s league, and England made the perfect start to their campaign by winning both games in their bid to better Great Britain’s finish of 6th in last years league.

With Goodfield starting in the first game, England put the Spaniards to the sword running out comfortable 6-1 winners with a 57th minute goal for Goodfield. The second game was a much closer affair with Telford’s former star starting on the bench. However, his impact on the game was instrumental and after Spain drew level after 54 minutes it looked like the points would be shared. Goodfield had other ideas and was in the right place at the right time to turn home a rebound from a penalty corner with 9 seconds left on the clock, to put England top of the Pro League after their first round of fixtures.

Great Britain’s Elite Development Programme (EDP) is fundamental in continuing the pathway for junior internationals into the senior squads. Lorna Mackenzie and Barney Bithell of Loughborough University are both among this year’s squads following their inclusion last year. Before moving to university both Lorna and Barney both represented the clubs Ladies and Men’s 1st XI’s and earned junior international caps whilst at the club and have since kicked on into the senior programme.

Last but certainly not least is current Men’s 1st XI player, Liam Hennessy’s selection for England’s O35 Masters team. Hennessy has returned to the club this season after signing from National League side Deeside Ramblers, and was also a part of the squad for last year’s cycle which concluded with the Home Nations and Nottingham Hockey Centre in August.

The Master’s programme has grown significantly since its setup with an increasing number of players putting their name down to represent their country. This year the programme will include the Home Nations tournament in Swansea in June, and the rescheduled Masters World Cup which will take place from the 12th to the 21st of August at Nottingham Hockey Centre. Ex men’s 1st XI defender Liam Flynn will also be a part of the management team as a video analyst.

Father of David Goodfield and Chairman of the club Gwynne Goodfield and his mum Sue travelled to Spain to support England and said, “It was fantastic to be able to travel out to Valencia to support David, it was a great moment to see him score the winner in the second game. The club is always looking out for its former players and following their progress. It is great to see them continue their development. The club is very proud of them and the junior section that has produced quality players over the years. Liam is a great role model for our current players to look up to, his selection for England and return to the club is brilliant for him and for us.”