Time to get back to hockey

That is the message from Hockey Wales as they launch their national Back2Hockey summer campaign.

Clubs will be opening their doors to players new and old seeking a ‘gentle, friendly’ introduction or reintroduction to hockey in a ‘sociable and informal’ environment.

The campaign runs for eight weeks and is led by a Back2Hockey activator from each club.

The majority of people that attend Back2Hockey sessions are looking to improve their fitness, confidence and brush up on their hockey skills.

The Back2Hockey campaign is running for an eight week period between May and August and in Gwent Risca Leisure Centre has signed up to the scheme.

The Wednesday night sessions from 7pm to 8pm will take place from July 11 to August 29.

Anyone interested in attending can contact Sue Jones via email at sue.jones333@sky.com.

Another alternative for those feeling the hockey itch as the weather warms up is a new form of the sport called Rush Hockey.

Rush Hockey can be played on most surfaces from an indoor sports hall, netball or tennis courts, five-a-side pitches, Astroturf pitches or even car parks.

Rush sessions work on a 'turn up and play' basis, whether you're on your own joining in on a session or with a group of friends.

There are minimal rules, allowing you to get on and play straight away without too much stopping and starting.

There are no goal keepers, a bigger and lighter ball making it easier to control, branded Rush Hockey sticks and smaller goals.

The court size is smaller and teams are made up of seven players with rolling subs to allow five players on the pitch at any one time, so everyone gets a chance to get stuck in with plenty of touches on the ball.

Sessions are up and running and open to the general public aged 16 and over at Cwmbran Stadium on Sundays from 5pm to 6pm, costing £4.

If you are a student, look out for sessions coming to your school or college soon, including Coleg Gwent in Cross Keys and Ebbw Vale.

For more details visit hockeywales.org.uk