This weekend, Epsom College’s U18, U16, and U15 girls’ Field Hockey teams are set to embark on an exciting tour of Belgium, where they will compete against some of the country’s most prestigious hockey clubs. The teams will be staying at Hotel Ter Elst from August 17th to 21st, a venue renowned for hosting national teams. The hotel’s prime location is particularly advantageous, with the training facilities of Royal Victory Hockey Club just a short walk away.

The teams are led by Brett Garrard, Director of Hockey at Epsom College. Brett brings a wealth of experience to the tour, having served as the former captain of England Hockey and achieved remarkable success as a coach, winning eight championships with Surbiton Ladies. Under his guidance, the girls are well-prepared for the challenges ahead.

The tour kicks off with the teams arriving in Brussels, where they will immediately face their first challenge against Royal Uccle Sport. With over a century of history, Royal Uccle Sport is a powerhouse in Belgian hockey,  boasting an impressive record of 22 Ladies titles and 13 Men’s titles, along with numerous national and European cup victories. This match will set the stage for a series of competitive and thrilling encounters throughout the tour.

On Sunday afternoon, the teams will travel to Antwerp to take on Royal Victory Hockey Club, one of Belgium’s   largest and most vibrant hockey communities. The proximity of the hotel to Victory’s facilities allows the teams to   prepare and recover efficiently between matches, ensuring they are in peak condition for this important clash.

Monday’s itinerary includes a morning training session, where the players will fine-tune their strategies and skills before the U16 and U18 teams compete against KHC Dragons, another top-tier club from Antwerp. Known for its exceptional talent and high level of play, KHC Dragons will provide a formidable test for the Epsom College teams.

The final day of the tour, Tuesday, will focus on a comprehensive training session, allowing the players to consolidate what they have learned and prepare for their journey back to Epsom on Wednesday morning.

This tour offers an invaluable opportunity for the Epsom College Field Hockey teams to gain international experience, refine their skills, and strengthen their team dynamics. Organized by Holland Elite Sports Agency, we are confident that the players will return with not only new insights and skills but also unforgettable memories from this exceptional sporting experience.

We wish the teams the best of luck and look forward to hearing about their achievements on the field!