Sultan of Johor Cup
In October 2023, Great Britain hockey embarked on an exciting trip to Malaysia to showcase their prowess in the 11th Sultan of Johor Cup tournament, including 6 University of Exeter students. The tournament consisted of the top hockey nations in the world and finished with Germany taking home the trophy.
Securing 5th place, GB demonstrated their determination after triumphing over New Zealand in a 5-3 final battle. University of Exeter students Jonny Sturch Hibbit and Harry Markham etched their names onto the scoreboard making the final match one to remember.
A huge well done to the following students who were part of the tournament.
- Harry Markham – BA International Relations
- Jonny Sturch Hibbitt -BSc Exercise and Sport Science
- Jacob Payton – MSc Mechanical Engineering
- Nick Nurse BSc Exercise Sports Science
- Lewis Wilcher – BSc Physics
- James Carleton- BSc Economics
University of Exeter Students and Alumni Shine in Elite Development Programme, Paving the way for future hockey stars
10 students have been named in the 2024 GB Hockey Elite Development Programme (EDP). This aims to bridge the gap between U21/ U23 programmes and the senior Men’s and Women’s game.
It was recently revealed that GB are making changes to their Women’s programme, with EDP selected individuals now being scouted with a keen eye on their potential to represent Great Britain within the next 1-5 years, thereby solidifying the Women’s programme as the ultimate showcase of hockey talent.
As well as funnelling talent through the pathways to enrich GB hockey in the future, the programme gives the hockey athletes further focus into improving their game. The programs contain an array of professional avenues, ranging from intensive training camps to participation in international tournaments. Moreover, the athletes receive unwavering support through dedicated physiotherapy and strength and conditioning regimes.
The University of Exeter’s hockey performance programme stands as a steadfast collaborator towards EDP initiative, extending its support to the chosen athletes. With selection from both the Men’s and Women’s Hockey Club, including accomplished alumni many of whom have and still are representing the University, it is a true testament to the talent nurtured at the University of Exeter, further solidifying the legacy for future hockey stars. With some women’s selection still to come, this is an amazing start from University of Exeter students.
Last year saw current student and senior GB Hockey player Martha Taylor also be a part of the programme. Martha has recently come back from Argentina, playing in the FIH Pro League for Great Britian.
Here is the full list of chosen University of Exeter Students and alumni-
Alumni
- Ben Fox – BSc Economics with Industry Experience (2020-2024)
- Megan Crowson – BSc Exercise and Sport Sciences, PGCE Physical Education Secondary (2014-2021)
Current students-
- Georgie Gardens- BSc Psychology
- Jess Buchanan- FDSC (partnership) Coaching and Fitness
- Harry Markham – BA International Relations
- Jacob Payton – MSc Mechanical Engineering
- Millie Holme- BEng Mechanical Engineering
- Jamie Taylor – BSc Sports and Exercise Science
- Jonny Sturch- Hibbitt – BSc Sports and Exercise Science
- James Carleton- BSc Economics
- Nathan Gladman- BA History
- Lewis Wilcher – BSc Physics
Head of Hockey Harry Jones expressed his thoughts surrounding the selection of the players-
We are delighted for the Exeter players that have been successful in their EDP selection. They work incredibly hard to juggle their academics with their international commitments. It will be exciting to see how they progress over the next 12 months, and we hope that with the combined support services from both Exeter and GB the players will continue to go from strength to strength. – Harry Jones
Harry Jones, Head of Hockey
Millie Holme, who is currently on placement, sent us some thoughts about being selected for the programme.
How does it compare to previous selection processes you’ve been through?
In previous selection processes you’ve been fighting for a spot in a team of about 30, this time it was 15! The coaches not only looked at game play but also shooting, PCA, passing ability and physical strength and conditioning.
We also had to fill out a form at the beginning to discuss why we wanted to be part of the GB EDP squad. This helped to reflect and bring your motivations to the surface.
How does this motivate you?
Being selected as part of the new GB EDP squad is extremely motivating, especially as the number of players selected has halved. It proved to me that I am close to my dream of player for the GB senior team. Knowing that I am in the development squad where coaches see your full potential helps my drive to improve in all areas.
Overall thoughts on the new changes?
I think the new set up will prove to be a good change to the system, especially as we will have the opportunity to train alongside the current GB Senior team, enabling relationships to be developed, and allowing a smoother transition from EDP to the full senior squad. It will facilitate coaches to have a more personal development plan with players.
 How do you find the performance programme supports your development as an athlete at university?
I am on placement this year, but still playing hockey for the University. The support I have had from coaches to help manage the demands and challenges of this has been exemplary, whether that’s a meeting or messages to keep updated with any issues or allowing me to have extra self-pitch sessions to catch up on training and conditioning.
In my previous years at the university, I have had access to S&C and physio, which are always readily available and easy to access.
We also caught up with Harry Markham a first year at the University of Exeter-
How does this compare to previous selection processes you have been through?
It feels incredibly rigorous. Effectively every session we attend is being watched and our play is constantly being analysed, something I haven’t had much before having not done any NAGS stuff.
Looking ahead to the season how does a success like this motivate you to set an example for other teammates?
Selection is a massive boost and very exciting. It is a busy season coming up for England and GB U21s, with the Euros and Johor Cup at the end of this year. Selection is nice but is also a source of motivation to keep going to give myself the best chance at selection. Having multiple Exeter boys in the same situation helps us push and motivate each other, creating a strong environment.
How do you find the performance programme supports your development as an athlete at the University?
HPP has been brilliant at giving us the edge over other players through the support and facilities we are provided with. It is brilliant turning up to camps with the confidence that the S&C and on-pitch sessions we have received have been so well planned and targeted. There is a huge amount of dialogue between the EDP and Exeter staff and this is massively beneficial. Injuries and rehab are taken very seriously, providing the best recovery strategies and putting you in the best position to deliver your best hockey.
The University of Exeter wishes all athletes good luck for the coming months and looks forward to hearing more about the hockey programme’s success! You can find out more about our Hockey Performance Programme and Scholarship schemes here.