There is plenty to celebrate at South Saxons Men's 5's after the side was awarded the South East Men’s Open Team of the Year title and shortlisted among the final eight teams in the country for the prestigious England Hockey Spirit of Hockey Awards national award for Men’s Open Team of the Year.

The national winners will be announced on Saturday 6 June 2026 at Athena in Leicester during England Hockey’s annual awards celebration.

Now in only their second season, the Men’s 5’s have quickly become a success story in the expansion of South Saxons Hockey Club. Built around enjoyment, participation and inclusion, the team has helped introduce new players to field hockey while creating a welcoming environment for people of all ages, backgrounds and abilities.

The side has played an important role in encouraging people who may never previously have picked up a hockey stick to get involved in the sport, while also helping players improve fitness, boost wellbeing and form new friendships through regular training and matches.

Men’s 5’s Captain Tim Laughton said:

“To win the South East Nomination for the England Hockey Spirit of Hockey Awards is absolutely amazing for the team and the club!

Saxons M5s plays for fun and has a great team spirit. We've a core of regular players and others who join us from time to time when work/family commitments allow. Our team is a mix of skill levels and ages; some fit and some who aspire to being fit but win, lose or draw we enjoy our hockey.

Whether it's at training during the regular season or the Back2Hockey/Summer training we're always looking for people to join us even if they've never played before.”

The recognition highlights not only the success of the team on and off the pitch, but also the wider community driven ethos running throughout the club. South Saxons Hockey Club runs Men’s, Women’s and Junior teams, with opportunities available for players of every standard and experience level. The club prides itself on ensuring there is a team for everyone, regardless of ability.

For anyone interested in giving hockey a try, the club’s popular Back2Hockey sessions continue throughout the spring and summer at Horntye Park Sports Complex, Bohemia Road, Astroturf every Tuesday from 6.30pm to 7.45pm. The first session is free, with subsequent sessions available on a £5 pay-as-you-go basis.

With the new season still a few months away, now is an ideal time for beginners and returning players alike to get involved, meet club members, learn the basics of the game and become part of one of the area’s most welcoming hockey communities.