Chichester poised for new bid for national league hockey status

They will again compete in the South Premier League division one, in which they have done well in recent seasons.

They are also involved in the national cup – in which they’re already through to round two – and the Sussex Cup.

Changes to the squad have taken place in the close season. Out have gone star youngster Luke Emmett, who has gone to university, and Cameron Mead, who has returned down to his native Australia.

In comes Rafael, a Belgian national league player, and Richard Blakesley, back with Chichester after a season playing in the national league.

Will Gammon returns after two seasons in Spain and Jason Collins, an ex-England international, is also back.

For a long time, Chichester have aimed for promotion to the national league, and having just missed out in recent seasons, this year seems as encouraging as any.

The league campaign starts on Saturday at Old Georgians. The first home game is against London Wayfarers on Saturday week. Home games are at Kingsham at 1.30pm.