In advance of our first official walking hockey session on 6 September, we held a trial event today, just to ensure that we had all the kit we need and generally figure out how to do it.

Walking Hockey is hockey but not as you know it because there is no running, goal keeping, shooting circle, raised ball fancy stuff, hitting (the ball or players) and various other differences including no hockey ball. A puzzle that is soon explained by the presence of the Quicksticks ball. This ball is about twice the size, probably lighter, seemingly unwhackable and far less dangerous. I even managed to compress it a bit with my hands, but that might just have been due to the searing heat in which ten brave walkers tested out all my new fangled theories on the subject of just what walking hockey is.

The assembled pioneers of the new era of hockey at BHHHC comprised players old and young. (at least) One with a chronic illness, one hadn’t touched a stick for 30 years, one life member, a former club treasurer, a former Hemel Ladies HC player (that’s where the Hemel Hempstead part of our name comes from) some long since retired 5xi players, a dog whisperer, some current 5xi players and one teenager who was prised away from his PlayStation for the occasion. The best bit? They all enjoyed it. We also tried out the official walking hockey D-less pitch, which worked well, though one player insisted on being repeatedly tackled by the pitch markers.

The point of all this is that just about anyone can play walking hockey. So you can too, or someone you know who used to play, or has never played but doesn’t want to play Runny Hockey, or is put off the idea of hockey by thoughts of having a ball whacked at them, or just wants to get out of the house and meet some friendly people outdoors. Even the walking bit is pretty much optional (ie you can stand still). And I guarantee that it won’t always be searingly hot.

The only entry requirements at the moment are that you are over 18, in possession of a £5 note (you will be asked to hand it over and find a new one for next week) and at a loose end from 13:00 every Tuesday, starting 6 September 2022. Term time only btw.

Due an administrative error (I was undergoing an endorphin rush caused by the absence of walking hockey equipment being hurled at me accompanied by accusations of incompetence), I regret to report that I forgot to capture a photograph of the assembled pioneers, so you will have to make do with the exciting picture of Quicksticks balls.

For more information you can send me a message, or just turn up. In the mean time I shall address the task of a Walking Hockey logo…..here comes BHHWHC!