Stokesley Hockey Club Annual General Meeting 2026 - Minutes

13^th May 2026

Agenda

1. Apologies for Absence:

Drew Prunty, Chris Slade, Dawson Clarke, Shaun Wallace, Jonny Towers, Steve Donlan, Phil Rose, Paul Clark, Gav Coates, Paul Wicks, Harry Bell, Edward Lambert

2. Minutes of Previous AGM

No Issues

3. Reports

Hon. Chairperson’s Report

After 8 years as chairperson of Stokesley HC this will be my final report as Chairperson. Whilst the club is by no means perfect and there are certainly things we can do as a club to move forward - we should acknowledge its stability both from a financial and playing aspect.

Whilst other clubs in the area continue to have challenges, we must celebrate our unity as a whole club and use this to choose the best path forward in the future.

I’d like to thank those on the committee and the captains for the hours of work they put in to fulfil our obligations with England hockey and to ensure that all paying members of the club have the opportunity to play hockey, whenever they are available at the weekend.

There is an immeasurable amount of work that goes behind the scenes to keep things running, and the majority of this is unseen. We are always looking for new members to help with the running of the club and so the AGM presents another opportunity to add ‘fresh blood to the committee’.

From a playing perspective, the headline figure of no promotions and no relegations doesn’t do justice to the hockey played within the teams. The 1’s dealt with changes in playing personnel and started well, ultimately finishing 5th. The 2’s finished 8th in a competitive league and the 3’s finished 4th in a stop start season. Jack and Chris are standing down this year, and I’d like to thank them for their work as captains over the years and for working together to balance the needs of all.

I’d also like to thank Josh who is stepping back from his role as coach for his efforts to drive forward standards and quality of sessions over the past few years. You can only be as good as the training sessions that you turn up to, and I know those who attend training regularly have felt the benefit of your work.

The changes to England hockey funding and their plans to develop hockey in states schools have presented an opportunity for the club to improve junior numbers by going into local schools.

All of this is voluntary, and I’m grateful to Dave for giving up a day a week to teach in schools and to the members of the committee who have aided him facilitate a schools games day at Macmillan, and the weekly sessions he is putting on in the schools.

England hockey has supported us with this and have offered some advertisements through their social media which is promising. Quite whether their support of the wider project continues into next year is one that England hockey can’t quite confirm a present, but we will see whether this work will lead to an increase in junior numbers. I’d also like to call out Dave’s junior helpers on a Tuesday night for the work they do to facilitate the junior hockey (Jonny, Isaac etc.).

Hon. Treasurer’s Report 

We have decided not to publish a complete financial report here, but I can summarise that since last season, our balance has decreased by £3064 once all debt or credits have been cleared. The benefit of players paying via the app has made the lives of captains easier and means it’s easier to track payments. That said, we still have a reasonable amount owed, so please clear this before the start of the season.

The club has invested in equipment this year as expected.

The predicted increases in fees from England Hockey, League and the pitch mean we’ve taken a hit this year, alongside increases in food costs.

We’ve had less sponsorship this year, which has meant we’ve not offset increases in costs; this needs to be a focus for next year otherwise we’ll have to pass on costs to players.

We should also continue to place a hold on players match participation once their debts reach £100 (unless prior agreement has been reached).

Hon. Secretary’s Report 

Another successful year for Stokesley Hockey Club, and as Secretary I am pleased to provide an update on the continued progress and activities across the club during the past season.

Club membership has remained relatively stable albeit with a slight decrease, with the club currently consisting of 69 members, including 54 adult members, 7 under-18 members, and 8 junior training members. While this places the club in a positive position, it remains important that we continue to grow both junior and senior membership in order to safeguard the long-term future of the club, both in terms of playing numbers and financial sustainability.

Participation continues to be a key focus for the committee, and we remain committed to providing as many opportunities to play hockey as possible. Running three teams enables members across all levels to enjoy regular competitive hockey. This season, the club once again entered the club championships, providing valuable opportunities to compete against teams from outside the local area. We also competed strongly in the county championships and entered the summer league, allowing members to play alongside teammates they may not usually play with, while also maintaining fitness and involvement during the off-season.

This season also saw an increase in committee activity following the move to a monthly meeting structure. Meetings have been held both in person and via Zoom to improve accessibility and attendance, which has resulted in greater participation and engagement from committee members. The move to monthly meetings has enabled the committee to respond more effectively to issues as they arise and improve forward planning. As has been the case for several years, the club continues to rely on a small but dedicated group of volunteers whose hard work ensures the club continues to run successfully.

Looking ahead to next season, we are pleased to welcome several new faces onto the committee, which is always encouraged and appreciated. Over the summer, we aim to distribute a club survey to better understand the needs and views of members and help guide future improvements. We also intend to develop a club development plan to support the continued growth and strengthening of the club. As always, we will continue to provide members with as many opportunities to play hockey as possible, including the potential entry of a master's team into the club championships and possible participation in the indoor cup competitions.

Finally, on behalf of the committee, I would like to thank all players, volunteers, coaches, captains, umpires, supporters, and committee members for their continued commitment and contribution throughout the season.

Junior Section Report 

Stokesley HC Juniors have had a year of progress.  4 junior days this season which our boys & girls have enjoyed. Mixing small sided games formats for our 5-year-olds upwards, to full pitch for our 10–13-year-olds, with more clubs willing to join us. We've formed a local monthly game format with Norton HC, which both clubs can benefit from.

It is from these formats, that we aim to find juniors keen & capable of joining our later sessions & more have done this, when age eligible into our Men's Saturday sides.

Mark Armitstead & I had discussions with England Hockey representative Andrew Dales, about supporting our objectives & England Hockey working alongside us, to give more kids the chance to play hockey, to get more from EH from our increased EH club costs & England Hockey backed us for this season, in state Primary Schools.

We've concentrated our efforts to set up our 'Activating Hockey' with England Hockey & Macmillan Academy SGO partnership, to get out into the Primary Schools in Middlesbrough, to showcase hockey & give kids the opportunity to try our wonderful sport. Coaching in 2 schools for 5 weeks each (at Abingdon Road PS & St Claires RC), a full day at LINK Academy & our 1st Hockey Skills festival at Macmillan Academy with 8 primary schools. We'll see what comes from these sessions in the coming months.  We're continuing our junior sessions over the Spring to try to capture juniors who want to join us at a club, which is necessary to have that pathway in place. So, a long Spring & Summer coaching these juniors is ahead for me!

We'll see if England Hockey will support this next year as well & we have plans to continue to go to more schools in the coming months & into the new school academic year 2026-27.

The decision to move to Macmillan Academy before senior training was our natural transition & has now been successfully embedded as our new home. We have a range of ages 5–11-year-olds, both boys & girls, which works well.

Our Men's sides have a good supply of junior players & it's good to see junior players moving up the sides, as well as being happy to play down the sides where needed, an example to us all.

We must be aware that our junior numbers are at decent levels, but not at huge levels, so we must continue to look after and develop these players, for them and our longer-term stability. Rapha Shaw, John McAfee, Austen Kerr, Ted Latham, Gabriel Hammill-Thompson & Kenji Buckle-Macmillan, are all juniors that have all been selected for their Durham County junior squads which is good to see & shows we are doing a lot well,  to support players getting to these levels. Austen Kett achieved selection to the National Hockey Grand Slam, playing for YNE against the other 7 regions in a National Age Group event, which he deserves to be proud of.

My thanks go to all the parents, captains & committee, particularly for Jonny Towers, for helping me with Tuesday night training sessions along with our excellent junior support leaders, Isaac Graham, Rapha Shaw & John McAfee. Jonny Towers for his faith in the juniors within the 3s side. Kev Lane, Tim Shaw, Mark Armitstead, Colin McAdam & Christopher Heayns have supported 3s & 3s coaching as well which helps to share the load & hear different voices, to help our juniors enjoy & develop their hockey.

Team Captains’ Reports: 1st XI

Had a good year on the pitch and a difficult year off it, we had to deal with a difficult situation regarding a player being asked to leave the club. This was dealt with very well by all parties.

This left the team in a much better place in terms of moral and togetherness, but there was no escaping the 35 goals a year hole this left that needed to be filled. We had to completely change our playing style and adapt, but we did this well and with the help of players stepping up and doing a placement from Holland we did well.

The second season in a tougher league is always harder, but we fought well and finished in a respectable position in mid-table.

Next year may be our biggest challenge with a few players departing but hopefully we can bring in some fresh faces and build again.

Team Captains’ Reports: 2nd XI

The Men’s 2s have always had a multifaceted role within the club: supporting the first team, providing a platform for younger players stepping up from the thirds, while still trying to be as competitive and successful as possible in a very tough league. This season summed that challenge up better than any other.

From the very start, we knew it was going to be a difficult campaign. The league was stronger than ever, packed with sides who have grown and developed significantly in recent years, alongside some long away days that tested commitment and character across the squad. The first half of the season followed a clear pattern — we competed well against the teams around us in the lower half of the table, picking up important points, but struggled against the sides at the top end, often conceding too many goals despite some encouraging performances.

What happened after Christmas, however, showed exactly what this team is about.

Finding ourselves dragged into a relegation battle could easily have broken the group, but instead it galvanised us. Week after week we became harder to beat, more disciplined, and far more competitive against some of the league’s strongest teams. The fact that we lost to five of the top six sides by only a single goal highlights just how much we improved during the second half of the season. We were no longer simply making up the numbers — we were competing properly.

There is no doubt we made life difficult for ourselves at times. In a season where it felt like we dropped more points in the final five minutes of matches than ever before, staying in the league was a huge achievement and a credit to the resilience of the squad. Those fine margins were often the difference between draws, wins, and defeats, but the group continued to battle for each other throughout.

A huge positive this season was once again the development of younger players coming through the club pathway. Isaac Graham, John McAfee, and Harry Dunn all stepped up and gained valuable experience at this level, showing plenty of quality and commitment whenever called upon. As always, the junior members were a credit to 3rd team captain Johnny Towers and to all the work Dave Tucker continues to put into developing young players across the club.

There were also some outstanding individual performances throughout the campaign. Rapha Shaw and Harry Bell both earned opportunities with the first XI this season and showed exactly why they are regarded so highly within the club. Both have huge potential and exciting futures ahead of them.

The season reflected a team that never stopped improving. While results early on were difficult, the second half of the campaign showed a side capable of competing with anyone in the league. The togetherness within the squad, the willingness to fight for every point, and the support players showed one another throughout difficult moments ultimately proved vital in securing survival.

After three years captaining this side, it is incredibly sad to leave it behind. Captaining the Men’s 2s has been one of the proudest periods of my time at the club. As I hand over to Kenny O’Connor, I know I’m leaving behind a group of lads who are not only competitive hockey players, but genuinely great friends who always look after one another on and off the pitch.

Although I’ll still be around the club, it will be difficult stepping away from such a fantastic group.

Finally, thank you to everybody who supported us throughout the season — players, coaches, umpires, supporters, and everyone behind the scenes at Stokesley Hockey Club. It has been an honour and a privilege to captain this team and to share the pitch with every single one of you.

Team Captains’ Reports: 3rd XI

The 2025/26 season has been another successful year for Stokesley 3s. Competing in a league with increasingly challenging opposition, the squad has continued to show resilience, determination, and teamwork, consistently giving every side a competitive game throughout the season.

One of the biggest positives this year has been the continued development across the entire squad. It has been particularly encouraging to see the progress of several younger players, who have stepped up confidently and embraced the demands of senior hockey. Their improvement and commitment are providing an excellent pathway and steppingstone for progression further up the club structure.

The dedication shown by the squad this season has been outstanding, both in match attendance and at training sessions. The team spirit and willingness to work together have remained a defining feature of the group, helping to create a positive and supportive environment where players continue to develop individually and collectively.

A special thank you must also go to the parents for their continued support and dedication to the squad's ethos throughout the year. Their encouragement, commitment, and help behind the scenes continue to play a vital role in the success and culture of the team.

Overall, this has been another successful season for Stokesley 3s — a team that continues to work hard for one another, develop together, and represent the club with pride both on and off the pitch.

4. Election of Officers

Hon. Chair: Christopher Heayns

1. Jake Gunn

2. Christopher Heayns

The Vote was won by Christopher Heayns who is duly elected as Hon Chair for 2026-27 season.

Hon. Vice Chair: Dave Tucker

Hon Treasurer : Drew Prunty

Hon Secretary: Mark Armitstead

Fixtures Secretary: Dave Tucker

1st Team Captain: Dawson Clarke

PW asked to be considered for this role on the night however the club constitution requires at least 7 days notice for committee nominations.

1st Team Vice Captains: Jack Atha & Tom Atha

2nd Team Captain: Kenny O’Connor

2nd Team Vice Captains: Matt Hibbert & Shaun Wallace

3rd Team Captain: Jonny Towers

3rd Team Vice Captains: Chris Slade & Rich Carr 

Umpire Development Officer: Rich Carr 

Junior Development Officer: Dave Tucker 

Child Welfare Officer: Colin McAdam 

Disciplinary Officer: Paul Clark 

All other positions apart from chair were elected unopposed

GW queried whether he was still part of the committee as social secretary, reassured that he will still be coopted, but his role isn’t currently a constitutional position. Maybe something to look at for next year.

5. Club Constitution and Policies

5.1 Suggested change to constitution to include section 12.2: 

12.    Change of Rules    

12.1 No new constitutional club rule shall be made or existing club rules altered or amended unless at the AGM or EGM the majority of the membership agrees.   

12.2.  Where significant changes to the club are proposed:

• Merging with other clubs

• Addition/Reduction in Number of Teams

• Reduction of the number of Committee roles elected

• Folding of the Club

Then a two thirds majority of the adult membership needs to agree to the change at the relevant AGM/EGM

There was a discussion around this amendment. PW pointed out that the amendment was difficult to understand without an explanation. He suggested that any amendments should be accompanied by a paragraph from someone pro and con (or devil's advocate if none can be found). Amendments can be discussed in the AGM, but those voting before the AGM don’t have that level of detail. There was a vote that this can be added to the amendment which will then be voted on.

The worry about the actual amendment was that 66% is a high bar and could mean that it was impossible to change things in the future. It was pointed out that the amendment contains 4 specific instances where this will apply and can’t be used for any other amendments (e.g. amendments to the constitution will still fall under 12.1).

The amendment passed and will be added to the constitution.

5.2 Suggested change to constitution section

10.1 to include an additional category for a member:

• Social member (parent of active club player, who supports the constitutional objectives of Stokesley MHC)

• Nominal Social member fee - £10

It was explained that this amendment was to help parents of members of the club to have a say in the running of the club. Example given was PB who had expressed an interest to run as chair this season however there was no constitutional means for him to become a member. Therefore, this amendment will fix these issues, while giving the committee powers to block any malicious intent behind people wanting to become a social member.

The amendment passed and will be added to the constitution.

6. Finances

There was a query as to why the treasurers report stated that we wouldn't be publishing the complete financial data. Chair, Vice chair and secretary all agreed that transparency was essential and that we would go through the information we had:

13 May 2025 Balance £5,055.80

Money owed £700

Coaching £1000

True Balance £4,755.80

12 May 2026 Balance £1,171.14

Money owed (subs) +£1046

Sponsorship +£2000

Coaching / Umpiring -£2526

True Balance £1691.14

So, this season we are down £3064.66 once all money is collected or paid out.

Coaching, umpiring pitch and league fees have gone up this year compared to last year. Coaching & umpiring is a just and correct reset as these weren’t really taken in previous years; the others are unavoidable.

Noticeable expenses that is different from previous years is:

£6,707.5 Pitch Hire – increased from previous years

£4,334.5 – Food (this took a double hit, increased prices but late invoice for 24/25 food meant paying out this season for last year.

£2474 – England Hockey – increase in fees this year

£940 – Yorkshire North East Fees – increase in fees this year

Discussion around the high cost of teas, we are proud that we offer significantly better after match food than every other club in the YNE, however the cost is significant. The committee will look at how to be more efficient with teas whether we just order 16 for the away team and split any leftovers for the home team, or look at having lower quality teas.

Sponsorship was discussed. PB commented that he does similar things in his job role and that it is always more difficult to sell single sex clubs. However, being a more niche sport can help as football is oversaturated. Discussion around Train Direct being the main sponsor and CH now being chairman. CH stated there was no one else willing to be the main sponsor and the 2-year sponsorship comes to an end next season where the club can make a decision again. As the main shirt sponsor is currently going towards paying for shirts there was a discussion if we can look at having a different arrangement where members pay for their own shirts so the sponsorship money can got towards the running of the club. This will be looked at during this season as the sponsorship will need to renewed or changed at the end of next season.

It was questioned whether traditional social media is effective at selling the club, PW pointing out that most companies don't expect anything really for their sponsorship just the ability to market themselves as giving back to the community.

The treasurer will provide a forecast for the coming season to help the committee plan and budget where necessary.

7. Any Other Business 

7.1 Club Life Membership for Steve Donlan

DT gave an overview of Steve’s history with the club, he is the longest serving member of the club giving close to 30 years' service, has been 2’s captain and member of the committee for some of that time as well.  

Although there were no more official AOB, there were additional discussions.

7.2 Following on from the amendment discussion there was a vote to add another amendment to section 12, namely:

12.3 Any proposed change of rules, when put to the membership, will be accompanied by an explanation of the proposal by both someone who is in favour of the proposal and someone who is against the proposal so members can take a more informed decision.

This was voted on and passed by the AGM, and will be added to the constitution.

7.3 Discussion around bringing closer ties to Stokesley Ladies. There has been some discussion generally around the club about the ladies wanting closer ties but no actual substance or approach from them. Chair CM asked what would we want from them. Formal merge of the clubs wasn’t a popular option until and unless more groundwork has been put in so is not on the table for the near to medium term. Most of the AGM wanted to start with less formal ways to get to know each other and see where there are mutually beneficial ways we can work together. DT pointed out that as it was the ladies’ section that left the club, it should be the to approach us with any proposals. It was generally felt however that informal discussions should take place between members of both committees to test the water. The general consensus of a starting point would be to enter a mixed team into the EH Club Championships this season and have some joint socials, then any further ways we can help each other should feel more organic and easier to implement.

The Committee will look into this further throughout the summer. 

7.4 Discussion around how to attract more members to the club. PB asked about the club demographics. As with most clubs in this area we are an aging club, as the majority of student age members go to university and then onto bigger cities. Regarding junior members, CH explained that this season EH pilot scheme was for state primary schools, DT has put a lot of time into this and although we are working in TS1, one of the most deprived areas of the country, it has helped bring a small number of those children to our club training. Whether EH carry this on to secondary schools next season remains to be see but we are in a good position to benefit from that if it happens. Getting12-14-year-olds is crucial as they can start to play adult hockey at 13, which differs from lots of other sports.

The committee are working on things that could bring this demographic in so hopefully we will be able to see some work around that. 

7.5 Teesside University was also mentioned as Marton have moved away from playing there and there is currently no University hockey team, meaning there is a gap to entice hockey players to play league hockey. Getting even 5-10 more members will also help our financial position.

The Committee will look into how we can advertise around the university over the summer.

7.6 The committee wants to put on record our thanks to Colin McAdam for his service, commitment and leadership to the club over his 8 years as chair which has helped with our evolution, growth and success.

7.7 Finally there was a discussion around communication between the committee and the membership. PW and EC commented that once the season is over lots of members mute hockey WhatsApp's and aren't as engaged in the club as during the season, so any AGM amendments or committee nominations should be asked for before the end of the season.

The committee has been looking to improve this and will continue to do so for next season:

• a club satisfaction survey which will be out in the next few weeks in order to guide the committee in the coming season.

• The committee will also look to ask for any business from the members before committee meetings

• and post summaries of each committee meeting to the members throughout the season.

8. Close of Meeting