Hampshire Game Changers Returns for 2026 – Bigger and Better!
A four-week development programme for U9–U11 players, designed to inspire future hockey talent across Hampshire.
Following the huge success of last year’s pilot, we’re delighted to confirm that Hampshire Game Changers is back for 2026! This four-week development programme is aimed at U9, U10 and U11 players who show potential and enthusiasm for hockey, giving them a brilliant opportunity to build their skills in a fun and engaging environment.
What is Game Changers?
Game Changers offers high-quality training sessions led by Hampshire Player Pathway coaches. It’s designed to give young players a taste of what county-level hockey looks like – while having plenty of fun along the way!
With an exciting mix of technical drills, small-sided games, and match-play scenarios, players will develop core skills and tactical awareness. This year, we’ve made a few updates to make the experience even better:
What’s New for 2026?
- Increased Interest – Last year’s programme was a great success, and we’ve already had a surge in early interest this time round. Places will be limited, so please encourage nominations as early as possible.
- Revised Timings – We’ve adjusted the session times slightly to allow for better organisation and a break between groups. Full timings will be published on the Game Changers page shortly.
- Clear Age Classifications – This year, we’ve set out clearly defined age groups. Please check our Game Changers page for the “born between” dates that apply to each age group.
- Preparation for the Development Centre (DC) – For U11 players, Game Changers also acts as a stepping stone towards DC selection. Talented U11s identified during Game Changers may be nominated early for the 2026–2027 U13 DC Cycle.
⚠️ Please note: Hampshire Hockey will not accept underage nominations for the DC unless those players have first been seen at Game Changers.
Key Dates for 2026:
📅
- Saturday 18 April
- Saturday 25 April
- Saturday 2 May
- Saturday 9 May
📍Venue and session times can be found on the Game Changers page.
How to Get Involved
Clubs can nominate up to three boys and three girls per age group. The cost is £40 per player for all four sessions, including a special Game Changers t-shirt. Hampshire Hockey will invoice clubs directly once nominations are confirmed.
We hope and encourage club coaches to attend the sessions, offering a great opportunity to observe, get involved, learn, and bring ideas back to your own training sessions.
If your club has young players with potential – don’t miss out!
Nominate early and give them the chance to shine with Hampshire Game Changers.
➡️ Visit the Game Changers page for full details and registration.
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