Hi, my name is Thomas Morris, I’m 15 years old from Tipton, and I play midfield/forward for Cannock Field Hockey Club.

How I got into hockey >>
I saw a poster at my primary school advertising for new members at a local field hockey club. My sister, my yonger brother and I went to our first training session on a cold wet saturday morning and that was it, we were hooked! 

What is it like playing hockey >>
When I first started I was in the same team as my dad and younger brother, Louie. It was a fantastic feeling to be playing a competitive sport with them. Since then I’m now playing at a higher level. The adrenaline starts pumping and you don’t have a moment to think. I enjoy being part of a team, having that team spirit on and off the pitch. Being able to stick together even when the going is tough. But it is also such an amazing feeling to score a winning goal in the last few seconds. I try to play by the ethos of England hockey… Passion, Speed, Respect. 

My achievements >>
I play for Cannock, in the Stags and second team. The second’s won the league 09/10 season, so that was a real achievement for my first full season. I played in the Staffordshire JAC (county level) , and Mercian Lynx (Midlands level) squad last year, which is the tournament where players are assessed for England selection. Mercian Lynx won the tournament and I was the top goal scorer. My biggest achievement is probably playing for England under 16s, not bad for a boy from Tipton.
 
Training >>
It’s hard work but it is all worth it in the end. I have to manage my diet building up to touraments, making sure that I carb load well so that I have the energy and muscle strength to perform at my best. I have training two nights a week for Cannock, then for England it’s mainly weekends at Lilleshall near Newport. The training is hard work but the training squad coaches are excellent and supportive.
 
Role models >>
There are several role models I look up to. Richard Lane, James Fair and Andy Humphries play for Cannock and have achieved England caps. Also, my coach Will Fleet is awesome. He has helped the Cannock under 16s squad achieve places in the indoor and outdoor hockey finals. At 19-years-old Will is an inspiration to all the team.
 
Check it out >>
I would recommend field hockey to anyone. The playing side is very rewarding and fast paced, it demands mental and pyhsical strength, and will improve your fitness.
 
If you would like to find out more about Cannock Hockey Club and how you can join, contact Jamie Fleet on 07718 980 510 or email: Jamie.fleet@englandhockey.org