Welcoming Jim East as Our New Coach Development Officer

Jim brings a wealth of coaching experience and a passion for nurturing hockey talent, making him an ideal fit for this role.

With a career spanning over three decades, Jim's dedication to hockey coaching and development is evident through his extensive background, credentials, and hands-on coaching history.

In his new role, Jim will be the primary point of contact for coaches seeking guidance and growth in Hampshire. Whether you're a seasoned coach or just starting your journey, Jim is here to support you with insights, training opportunities, and resources tailored to enhance coaching standards across the region.

Jim’s responsibilities include supporting coaches in their education and personal development, creating development opportunities, and coordinating events to strengthen our coaching community.

The Coach Development Officer role is a new one for us and a vital step in ensuring that we provide the best possible support for Hampshire’s coaches.

Previously, these responsibilities fell under the broader role of Director of Coaching, led by Kevin Small. Upon Kevin’s departure, we saw an opportunity to rethink the structure, making it more relevant and specialised to our Player Pathway. By splitting this role, we will be looking to have three regional coaching managers for the DC cycles, each focusing on local coordination, while Jim’s role focuses solely on coaching development.

Jim will also oversee our annual Introduction to Coaching group bookings and manage the budget for assisting coaches with training costs where needed. His impressive coaching credentials speak to his commitment and capability, holding not only Level 1 and Level 2 Coaching certificates, Sports First Aid, an enhanced CRB, but he has also has attended attended Level 3 Coaching Workshops: Attacking Final 3rd, Attacking Outletting,. Goal Scoring, Team Defence, and Unit Play.

With many years of experience as a lead coach for various teams, including the Hampshire AC Boys U17 and Romsey Mens and Ladies 1st teams, Jim has worked across all levels, from junior to adult teams, honing his expertise and approach. His journey in coaching, spanning from his early days with Trojans Juniors to his recent roles with Hampshire’s Player Pathway teams, reflects his deep connection to the sport.

Please join us in welcoming Jim East to our team. We’re excited to see the positive impact he will have on Hampshire Hockey, helping coaches across the region grow and succeed.

Welcome aboard, Jim!