South Saxons Hockey Club is delighted to recognise another remarkable milestone in the hockey career of Michael “Mickey” Acott, who has received an 'engraved glass vase' in recognition of his dedication to umpiring in Sussex and reaching 200 county games.

The presentation was made by John Moss, South East Hockey Development Lead, acknowledging a contribution to the game that stretches far beyond the umpire’s whistle. For South Saxons members, the award is the latest chapter in an extraordinary association with hockey that has lasted for more than half a century.

54 seasons in Saxons colours

Earlier this year Mickey brought his playing career with South Saxons to a close at the age of 70. Contemporary coverage recorded an extraordinary 54 seasons with the club, during which he established himself first as a highly regarded goalkeeper and later as an outfield player, while simultaneously developing an increasingly significant role as an umpire and hockey official.

The South Saxons website records 7 February 2026 as “Michael Acott Final Game”. Club fixture records for that day show the Men’s 4s drawing 1–1 with Crawley M4 in Division 4 Martlets.

Local coverage of Mickey's farewell described a competitive game at Bexhill Academy, where an arch of honour was formed in recognition of his contribution and he was fittingly named Man of the Match.

That final appearance closed the playing chapter of a South Saxons career spanning generations of teammates, opponents and changing eras of the game.

A major contribution to Sussex Hockey

Mickey's involvement has never been confined to South Saxons.

He went on to serve as President of the Sussex Hockey Association, a position independently recorded when he attended the opening of Worthing Hockey Club's new hockey centre in 2019.

Hastings Independent Press also describes him as a senior and respected umpire and official who has served as President of Sussex Hockey and held positions with England Hockey, describing him as a longstanding ambassador for the sport.

His work at national level can be seen in England Hockey records. During the 2023/24 season Mickey was appointed as a Match Official in the England Hockey League Women's Division 1 South, including Sevenoaks v Canterbury in September 2023, Sevenoaks v Harleston Magpies in November and Sevenoaks v Barnes in March 2024.

That progression from player to goalkeeper, outfield player, umpire, county official and national-level match official illustrates just how broad Mickey's contribution to hockey has been.

200 county games

Reaching 200 county games as an umpire is therefore much more than a numerical milestone. Behind it are countless weekends, appointments, journeys, players and matches, together with the experience and commitment required to officiate consistently at county level.

For South Saxons it is also particularly special to see someone whose playing career has been so closely associated with the club continue to represent the values of hockey beyond the boundary of Horntye Park.

Mickey's playing days may have concluded in February, but his enthusiasm for the sport clearly has not.

Everyone at South Saxons Hockey Club congratulates Mickey on his 200 county games milestone, and on receiving this thoroughly deserved recognition from South East Hockey.

Congratulations Mickey — 54 seasons in Saxons colours, 200 county games with the whistle, and a lifetime of service to hockey. We salute you!