Hockey opportunities are already aplenty in the town, but they’re about to become larger as Bedford Girls’ School has announced a new partnership with Bedford Hockey Club for the 2026/27 season.
Bedford Girls’ School, who already see a large number of their students, teachers and alumni represent the club, say the new partnership is about, “building upon sporting heritage, championing sport for girls and widening opportunities for all girls”.
The partnership builds on a long-standing connection between the school and the club, creating further opportunities for Bedford Girls’ School students to engage with the sport.
And it doesn’t need to include a hockey stick. Playing opportunities will be partnered with chances to volunteer at the Chester Road outfit, including umpiring possibilities and supporting junior and county events.
Building on a natural connection
Last season, the Ladies’ 1st XI won the Eastern Premier Division with a squad that included four Bedford Girls’ School students, a member of staff and five alumni, outlining the natural connection that already exists.
The Ladies’ first team now play in the National League setup, in the Women’s Conference Midlands.
Kate Costin, Ladies club captain at Bedford Hockey Club, said: “The connection between Bedford Hockey Club and Bedford Girls’ School goes back many years, and this partnership marks an exciting new chapter for both organisations.
“For us, this is about far more than branding. This new partnership will enable us to professionalise our training setup further as we pursue our vision of sustained National League hockey at Bedford.
“Above all, it strengthens a genuine pathway for girls at Bedford Girls’ School; a place to develop, compete and belong to the Bedford hockey family throughout their school years and beyond.”
Mrs Mason-McLeod, Director of Sport at Bedford Girls’ School, added: “At BGS, we are passionate about creating opportunities for girls to soar through sport.
“Hockey is a wonderful sport and our close relationship with Bedford Hockey Club highlights the importance we place on encouraging girls and young women to be involved in a thriving local sporting community.
“We actively support students who play club hockey, including through a tailored match-day programme enabling them to represent both BGS and their club wherever possible.
“It is wonderful to see current BGS students, staff and alumnae involved with the Club across different teams and age groups.
“Having been part of Bedford Hockey Club for more than 25 years, first as a player and now as Director of Sport at the school, I have seen the friendships, belonging and lifelong love of sport that club hockey can create.
“This partnership is about more than hockey; it is about championing girls and women in sport and helping them stay connected to it for life.”
Bedford Hockey Club’s 14 senior squads return to action this weekend, with the Ladies’ first team headlining with the visit of Olton and West Warwickshire.
The game begins at Chester Road in Queen’s Park at 1pm on Saturday (17 October).
