THREE of Tunbridge Wells Hockey Club’s Flyerz section were representing England at the European Hockey Federation’s European Para Hockey Tournament in Barcelona.
Seb Brooks, Jack Chatfield and Tim Cooney joined up with players from Midland Mencap to make up the squad for two national teams.
They were entered in the beginner and intermediate categories in a tournament which comprised 16 teams from six different countries – overall 120 players took part at the Pau Negre Stadium in Montjuic.
Under the watchful eye of Rio Olympic hockey gold medallist Helen Richardson-Walsh, the England sides came third and second in their respective categories.
Chatfield was named man of the match for one of his defensive displays, while Brooks and Cooney both scored twice on the final morning.
Head of Flyerz, Francis Bridgeman, said: ‘We are very proud of our TW Flyerz and their England team-mates for their performances at the tournament.’
He added: ‘As important as the hockey itself, we have all made new friends in the English and international Flyerz family, which can only help grow the awareness and participation in this fantastic sport.’
Flyerz is England Hockey’s name for players of all ages with learning and physical disabilities. The Tunbridge Wells section was set up last year, the first such provision to be established in Kent.
Club captain Bridgeman is assisted in the venture by Mitch Hawksbee, a member of the championship-winning men’s first team last season.
A tour of the Nou Camp stadium, arranged by the host football club, Barcelona, was a special treat for the visiting players.
For more information on TW Flyerz and training sessions visit www.twhc.co.uk/flyerz.html
PICTURE: NATIONAL HONOURS: (L-R) Jack Chatfield, Francis Bridgeman, Tim Cooney, Mitch Hawksbee and Seb Brooks
