We have seen the Mens 1s and 3s have great start to the season with both teams sitting 2nd in their respective leagues after 3 wins out of 4.

The 1s have put in some excellent team performances and the men's 3s have continued to develop new talent from the junior ranks.

Ed Norman and Dave Gardner leading the way with goals in their respective teams.

It is fair to say that it has been a tough start for the ladies team as they have not been able to play 3 of 4 matches so far due to unavailability, 2 conceded by R&I and one by the opposition.

An incredibly important part of the Club and I am not alone wanting to see the team on the pitch enjoying hockey.

I encourage all members to put the word out there that we are always welcoming new or returning players to join this friendly and good natured team and look forward to working with you to rebuilding the ladies section.

This season for the Mens 2s will very much be a rebuilding season after a number of players were promoted to the 1s before the season started.

Results have not matched the performances with 2 defeats and a conceded game due to losing 3 players in the space of 24 hours before the start of the match, however an excellent win against Havering and an exciting young centre midfield partnership developing between Simeon Roukin and Dylan Malwatta will give some hope that a midtable position is achievable.

Finally, It is with great sadness that in the first part of the season we have seen the passing of two former members of the Club that gave so much. Dianne Andrews and Ian Peter "Swaff" Swaffer. Whilst most of the current members may not have known them, their contribution to the history of our Club should not be forgotten. Thank you Dianne and Swaff for all you did.

Chris Allen
Club Captain Redbridge and Ilford Hockey Club