Deprecated: WPMailSMTP\Providers\Sendlayer\QuickConnectUsage::maybe_flag_limit_reached(): Implicitly marking parameter $connection as nullable is deprecated, the explicit nullable type must be used instead in /home/www/public/wp-content/plugins/wp-mail-smtp/src/Providers/Sendlayer/QuickConnectUsage.php on line 393
Hockey Youth Trust - Hockey Youth Trust

Since 1988, the Hockey Youth Trust has been helping young people step onto the pitch with confidence

Since 1988, the Hockey Youth Trust has been helping young people step onto the pitch with confidence

OUR CHARITY.
OUR COMMUNITY.
OUR FUTURE.

We believe every child should have the chance to experience the joy of hockey. The teamwork. The resilience. The friendships. The sense of belonging. Hockey builds strong bodies, strong minds and strong communities.

Over the past decade alone, we have awarded more than 275 grants, investing over £77,000 directly into schools and junior hockey clubs across the UK. Every pound goes towards helping young players get involved, stay involved and thrive.

WHAT WE DO

We provide practical grants that make a real difference on the ground and encourage the enjoyment of hockey.

Funding supports:

  • Playing equipment to introduce hockey in state schools
  • Playing equipment for hockey club junior sections
  • Full sets of junior goalkeeping kits
  • Mandatory junior face masks
  • Training bibs
  • Cones

Our grants typically range from £100 to £1,500 worth of equipment, awarded at the discretion of our Trustees and are designed to remove barriers so more children can take part and enjoy hockey.

Because when young people have the right equipment and support, participation grows, confidence builds and clubs flourish.

WHY YOUTH
HOCKEY MATTERS

Hockey gives children:

  • Physical activity and healthy habits for life
  • Teamwork and communication skills
  • Discipline, respect and leadership qualities
  • A safe, inclusive environment to belong
  • The confidence that comes from learning something new

Many clubs we have supported report stronger junior sections, improved coaching structures and young players progressing confidently into adult teams. Investment in youth hockey does not just support today’s players. It shapes the future of the sport.

HOW YOU
CAN GET
INVOLVED

Whether you are a school, a club, a donor or simply passionate about youth sport, there is a place for you in our community.

If you would like to apply for a grant or support our work, please get in touch via the information page. If you would like to make a donation, you will find our contact details on the information page.

Together, we can help even more young people discover the lifelong benefits of hockey.

APPLY FOR A GRANT

If your school or club would benefit from support, we encourage you to apply.

Please complete the application form and include all relevant information to help the Trustees understand how the funding will make a difference to your young players.

Every application is an opportunity to grow the game.

What can be applied for:

• Entry level hockey sticks and balls
• Face masks
• Cones
• Bibs
• Goalkeeping equipment

Who is eligible for the grant:

• State schools (primary and secondary)
• Hockey club junior sections (grants of up to 50% of equipment costs).

In the case of hockey clubs, a matching donation to the Hockey Youth Trust is required in order for the grant to be awarded.

What cannot be applied for:

• Financial funding of any kind
• Ground equipment (goals, pitch dividers, etc)
• Equipment for individuals
• Composite or Indoor sticks
• Personal playing equipment (gum shields, shorts, shirts, etc.)
• Team playing kit
• Umpire equipment
• Pitch hire
• Coaching, transport, or course fees

OUR STORY

Established in 1988, the Hockey Youth Trust was created to promote and support the development of youth hockey in schools and clubs throughout England. For nearly four decades, we have worked alongside dedicated volunteers, coaches and partners to strengthen the grassroots game.

We are proud to enjoy a close relationship with Mercian Sports and to continue exploring opportunities to support Mini and Junior Hockey Clubs and schools, including Quicksticks programmes, particularly those working towards or achieving EH Club First recognition.

MEET THE TRUSTEES

Mike Smith

Chair of Trustees

David Wareham

Trustee & Honorary Secretary

Graham Burgess

FCMA CGMA
Trustee & Honorary Treasurer

David Gunn

Trustee

A Message from the Board

For nearly four decades, the Hockey Youth Trust has been driven by one simple belief: when young people are given the opportunity to play hockey, extraordinary things happen.

We have each spent a lifetime in the game. As players, coaches, umpires, organisers and administrators, we have seen firsthand how hockey builds confidence, resilience and community. It teaches leadership. It nurtures belonging. It opens doors.

Our role as Trustees is to ensure that young people throughout England have access to the equipment, structure and support they need to thrive in the sport. Every grant we award is carefully considered, guided by experience and a shared commitment to growing the grassroots game.

We are proud to serve the Hockey Youth Trust and even prouder of the young players whose journeys we help support.