History makers storm up into the big league

TITLE TRIUMPH CROWNS STUNNING SEASON

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A TEAM from the North East will represent the region in England’s top division of women’s hockey for the first time since its formation 35 years ago.

Durham Women secured top spot in Division One North following a superb season which saw them win 17 of their 18 games.

Over the course of the season the team scored 72 goals, conceding only 13. Finishing on 51 points they were three points ahead of Beeston, of Nottingham, in the 10-team league.

Durham will now play in the Premier Division of the Women’s Hockey League in the 2025/2026 season, which starts in September.

Team coach Poppy Martin, who is also head hockey coach at Durham University, has tasted success in her first season in charge. She says the triumph is a testament to the squad’s talent and fortitude.

“We have developed into a strong group, a coherent unit – a team with a strong sense of belonging, and a belief that we are part of something” she said.

“We are well-connected and unified, and this has shown in the performances throughout an incredibly long season.