The 2008-2009 hockey season starts on the 14th Sept for U8's, U10's and U12's and on Wednesday 10th Sept for U14's and Under 16's.

Because Wildcats train on an all weather pitch sessions are usually only cancelled if the weather is extreme e.g. if the pitch is frozen or if there is driving wind and rain.

Session times

At Wallingford Wildcats as with many Hockey clubs in the country we combine 2 age groups into one. i.e Under 8, Under 10, Under 12 and Under 14.

U6's (Under 5 and Under 6 years of age on Sept 1st 2008) 9:30 - 10:30

U8's (Under 7 and Under 8 years of age on Sept 1st 2008) 9:30 - 10.45

U10's (Under 9 and Under 10 years of age on Sept 1st 2008) 10.30 - 11.45

U12's (Under 11 and Under 12 years of age on Sept 1st 2008) 11.30 - 1.00

U14, 15 and 16 (Academy) Wednesday evenings 6:00 - 7:30

Please try to arrive 5 minutes before the session starts and warm up safely on the pitch. Hockey is not to be played before the actual start of the session unless supervised by a coach or a designated helper.

First timers?

Children who would like to see if hockey is for them are welcome to visit us at one of the session times listed above. After registering details they will be introduced to one of the coaches who will help them choose a stick and brief them on the safety guidelines. Please try to bring along some form of shinpad and a gumshield and also a water bottle for refreshment during the session.

Clothes and Equipment

Shinpads are a must and can be purchased from most good sports shops. Please try to find a hockey shinpad rather than those used to play football. Gumshields are highly recommended and preferrably obtained from a dentist. Although this type is more expensive than a shop bought gumshield they do tend to be more comfortable and provide better protection.

Footwear should ideally be astro shoes (with small moulded studs) but trainers are acceptable to start with. However once the player is attending regular sessions and playing matches, correct footwear is recommended to help protect and support the feet.

Sticks and balls are available but we encourage players to get their own stick to suit their own playing needs. We also have a vast array of goal-keeping equipment in all sizes for those who wish to try it.

On the occasions that it does get very cold it is important for your child to wrap up well with lots of layers, including a hat and gloves. A thin waterproof jacket is also useful in case it rains.

For team matches against other clubs we ask that your child has team colours. This is normally a green and white quartered top with white shorts and green socks. If it is early in the season and you have not yet purchased these items then a green top will do.

Sticks, clothing and other equipment are available for purchase during specified training dates throughout the season. For more information please click here