The 2009/10 season has been a good one for Epsom, who have finished second in the Surrey / Hampshire Regional Division 1 and will go to the South Premier Division 2 promotion playoffs in May.

The team had to regroup following relegation from the South Premier League and have done so with a positive ethos that at times saw some scintillating attacking hockey. An impressive mid season run of form saw the side win 12 out of 15 games, but they will look to start and finish better next year, as 4 of the 6 losses came right at the beginning and end of the season.

The main positives for Epsom were the high number of goals scored, a total of 82 in 22 league games being particularly impressive given the retirement of former captain and penalty corner specialist Gary Scott. In Scott’s absence Epsom have had to rely far more on open play goals and there have been important contributions throughout the season from many different players. Mike Atkinson’s skillful running on the right wing has illuminated many games this season and he is a real talisman for the side.

Encouragingly for the future, the team has also featured far more younger players this season, with Alex Simmonds, Matt Simmonds, Alex Pizzey, Russell Tebay and James Marjoram all joining the side and playing important parts throughout the season.

This has been a very enjoyable season and Epsom can look forward to the next one with encouragement.

The playoffs are on May 9^th at Haslemere Hockey Club and any support would be much appreciated.

Player of Season: Brett Hosken

Most Improved Player: Russell Tebay

Top Goalscorers (league goals in brackets)

Mike Atkinson:                 18           (11)

Wade Joubert:                  16           (9)

Paul Atkinson:                   15           (13)

James Midmer:                 15           (11)

Russell Tebay:                   14           (11)

Rob Tong:                            10           (7)

Alex Pizzey:                        10           (8)

Mahmood Bhatti:            7              (5)