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Their dad, Steve Heyworth, said: “Roller hockey is a brilliant sport
but it costs so much to provide three youngsters with all the kit
they need. Matthew is training to be a goal-keeper so the experience
will be really helpful.
“These grants are a lifeline in
helping the boys get to Portugal and I have also had support from my
employer, E-Leather Ltd. However, with more tournaments coming up we
are now seeking long-term sponsorship deals.”
“Every year the national coach
invites British roller hockey teams to train at top-class facilities
and play alongside some of the world-leading Portuguese players,”
said Peterborough league secretary Jane Carter. “For the first time
we shall also be taking our under-17s intermediate team to a major
tournament at Sesimbra, near Lisbon, over the Easter bank holiday.
“Being invited to attend these
events in Portugal is fantastic recognition from the national coach
for what our local players are achieving.”
Peterborough’s roller hockey
heritage dates from 1966 when games were played at the now-closed
Wirrina sports stadium. However, the sport has retained enthusiastic
local support and a Peterborough team entered the national Division
3 league last September.
There are also a Minors team for
under-13s, two intermediate teams for under-15s and a school-boys
team for under-17s. The full squad of 27 registered players train
each Thursday and Friday evenings at Bushfield Sports Centre, where
the English national squad also trains each month.
“Any youngsters who are interested
in playing are welcome to come along to our beginners’ session from
5.30 pm to 7 pm on Friday nights,” said Jane. “Our coach, Arthur
Corr, is an inspiration to all the players puts lots of time and
effort into supporting all the teams and beginners.”
Jane manages three of the teams and
her son, Michael, 13, was voted 2007 national under-13 player of the
year and now plays in the under 15s,under 17s, and Division 3
leagues. Another player, Sam Cayley, has again been selected for the
national squad in te European competitions after making his national
debut last year.
Michael is the third member of
Jane’s family to take an interest in the sport. Peter, 17, is a
former player and Lucy, 19, developed an interest as part of her
Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme activities.
Peterborough City Council Leader,
Councillor John Peach, said: “We are pleased that our local roller
hockey teams are being so successful in helping young people pursue
healthy sports and we wish them every success in their training and
competitions in Portugal.”
February 2008 -
Peterborough UK Community Website
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