Last Friday, the esteemed members and supporters of the Chard Hockey Club gathered at The Shrubbery Hotel in Ilminster for the annual Awards night, with a noteworthy turnout of approximately one hundred attendees. The evening was distinguished by the unveiling of a novel accolade, the Swain Shield, named in honour of Andy Swain, a stalwart figure with 14 years of devoted service as Head of Junior Development. The introduction of this prestigious new award is aimed at recognising the significant contributions of individuals who, while indispensable to the Club’s triumphs, may not always receive their due acclaim.
Gary Wheaton, a seasoned player, umpire, and assistant to Andy in steering the junior development squad, was the rightfully chosen recipient of the inaugural Swain Shield. This accolade stands as a testament to his unwavering dedication in bolstering the Club’s development initiatives. Andy Swain himself was bestowed with the esteemed title of Clubperson of the Year in recognition of his unwavering commitment to fostering the growth of the Club and its budding members, many of whom have risen to join the ranks of the Men’s and Ladies’ senior sides.
The accolades extended to the Men’s First Team, lauded as the Team of the Year for their commendable feat of an unbeaten streak across 18 matches, culminating in an impressive third place finish in the West Area Men’s Division 2 Central. Their stellar performance was further underscored by a resounding 6-0 victory against Minehead 1st XI, culminating in a remarkable 19-game undefeated record by season’s end.
Tom Sainsbury emerged as the focal point of the evening, earning plaudits for Most Improved Player for the Men’s Second Team and Boy’s Under 18 Colt of the Year. Making his mark initially with the 3rd team, he swiftly ascended to secure a regular place in the Second Team, and even made notable appearances for the Firsts. His accomplishments were celebrated in the company of his family members, including his father Paul, and grandparents Jim and Christine.
Additional deserving recipients of awards for their outstanding contributions included:
– George Parris: Men’s 3rds Player of the Year
– Ollie Bartlett: Men’s 3rds Most Improved
– Thea Parsons: Ladies’ 2nds Player of the Year
– Angel Reynolds: Ladies’ 2nds Most Improved
– James Spurdle: Men’s 2nds Player of the Year
– Tom Sainsbury: Men’s 2nds Most Improved
– Charlotte Mooney: Ladies’ 1sts Player of the Year
– Evelyn Churchill: Ladies’ 1sts Most Improved
– Alec Evans: Men’s 1sts Player of the Year
– Riley Millet: Men’s 1sts Most Improved
– Tom Sainsbury: Colt of the Year (Boys)
– Layla Anderson: Colt of the Year (Girls)
– Andy Swain: Clubperson of the Year
– Gary Wheaton: Swain Shield
– Men’s First Team: Team of the Year
The Club reiterated their appreciation for the opportunity to engage with their community through comments on their stories, whilst underscoring the imperative of upholding respectful and appropriate conduct in their commenting platform, to prevent any form of abuse or misuse.