18th August 2009
Dust settles on Euros in Wrexham
As the dust settles on the Euro Hockey Nations Tournament held in Wrexham, many, many people have taken away some extremely positive memories.
In a note from the European Hockey Federation President to the WHU President, he said: 'Just a note to congratulate you and Welsh Hockey on an excellent tournament at Wrexham... it was a great week in a wonderful setting and with a great atmosphere'.
Notes of thanks continue to flood in from players, nations, officials, supporters, dignitaries and the Sports Council for Wales. We were lucky with the weather, the Welsh team was superb and the venue was a logistical delight. Indeed, this was a tournament of true partnership between the Welsh Hockey Union, Glyndwr University, Wrexham County Borough Council and, most important of all, the very many volunteers who helped in a myriad of capacities from all over Wales but particularly the North.
Those formally appointed to positions of responsibility to the tournament acquitted themselves admirably, displaying technological talents that has set Wales apart, the support to officials and VIPs was top notch all week, the ball patrol were amazing throughout, the activity volunteers did a magnificent job on the WHU Shop and the many outdoor areas, the Glyndwr University staff were tireless in their provision of service and facility, team liaison officers were most attentive as hosts and of course the organizing committee from North Wales Hockey Community and the WHU staff were pillars of strength before, during and after.
Our photo team and reporters were ubiquitous and we had lots of help in the EuroVillage from many locally and particularly Gilmour Sports. In addition to some superb hockey in which our boys picked up a Bronze medal, a joint WHU-WHUA seminar on the new rules, inter Performance Development Centre tournaments for boys and girls, sumo hockey, hockey skills, fastest hit, gladiators, big wheel, climbing wall, caricaturist, face painting, Techniquest and a variety of other side show attractions made this a great family event. We made a skills DVD, had hockey on television with live interviews and ran a minute by minute on line match reporting service.
We had fantastic support from the European Hockey Federation, the Vice Chancellors of Glyndwr, the Mayor of Wrexham, Regional Assembly Members (particularly Wrexham) and Council Members, the Sports Council for Wales, the Home Nations and many others. Although wrong in many ways to single out people when so many have contributed, I would like to thank the 2 persons at the heart of the operation; Chris Brewer and Anna Marie-Brown without whom this event would not have taken place. Their attention to detail was exceptional.
And so what now? I hope that the increased profile of hockey in Wales will help generate more interest in the sport, that the energy and enthusiasm will carry over in to our clubs and schools, and the performance shown by both Men’s and Women’s squads this summer will inspire the young.
All in Wales should feel very proud of our performance at this event, on and off the pitch! Well done everyone.
Mike Leatt, CEO
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