AGM VOTING - 2026/2027

Two candidates have put themselves forward for the role next season. Each has provided a statement outlining their reasons for standing. Please take the time to read both statements before casting your vote using the form at the bottom of the page.

Jake Gunn
For those of you who don't know me I'm Jake, or Trig, I played my first game for Stokesley on grass over 20 years ago. Since then I've played hundreds of games for the 1s across multiple divisions, including 3 years travelling from Manchester to play and many post nightshift games. I've seen our club meet, and overcome, challenges, grow from 1 to 3 teams and have a successful juniors set up which we should be so proud of.  
I have the corporate memory of our history and a desire to maintain our successes while pushing us forward as a growing and positive place to play hockey. 

After hanging up my gloves to go on deployment this year I spent a long time thinking how I could give back to the club I love. The opportunity to be your chair and apply my experience of leading teams to our club is one way I can. 

Christopher Heayns
Having served as 2's captain, I have always stood up for my team both on and off the pitch. If elected as Chairman, I will bring that same commitment and determination to the entire club. The role of Chairman differs from that of a captain, my focus would shift away from team selection and towards strengthening the club as a whole - growing membership, securing resources, and ensuring every team has what it needs to succeed.

On the pitch, I was proud to play a part in the Second Team’s County Cup success, and to have represented the club across all three teams. Although I am stepping away from playing regular Saturday hockey, I will remain actively involved through the veterans’ side and umpiring.

A key priority for me has always been the development of junior players. As Second Team Captain, I have supported and progressed a significant number of juniors into 2’s hockey, and I continue to mentor them both on and off the pitch. I have assisted with junior development fixtures and supported school outreach.

I have been a member of the club for seven years and have served on the committee for the past three. During that time, I have consistently invested in the club, both financially and through my time. This includes sponsoring playing kit over multiple seasons to ensure all players have equal access, contributing to the First Team’s National Cup Final trip in 2024, and funding and developing the club’s website, which has helped attract new members.

Beyond this, I have coached when needed, umpired across multiple teams, represented the club at Durham County meetings and safeguarding events. I supported getting the 1’s to London, including driving minibuses. I have also been honoured and humbled to be named Clubman of the Year twice in the past three years.

I am passionate about making hockey accessible to all. I have supported initiatives beyond the club to introduce the sport to young people who may not otherwise have the opportunity, and I am currently working to help bring the next generation into the club.

If elected as Chairman, my priorities will be to:

• Keep playing kit free for all members, both senior and junior

• Maintain low and accessible membership, and match fees

• Grow the club membership numbers while retaining our strong existing base

• Entering Over 35s and Mixed teams into the EH Cups, alongside our Men’s teams

• Strengthen and expand our junior section and community outreach

• Continuing to personally invest in the club, including an external coach if wanted

I believe in a club that supports all its teams as well as the individuals. My hope is to build on the strong foundations already in place and ensure Stokesley Hockey Club continues to thrive for years to come.