At Braintree Blue Hornets, we offer a clear and supportive development pathway for players from U8 Mixed through to U16, preparing them for adult competition. Each stage is tailored to the age and ability of the player, with a focus on enjoyment, skill development, and progression.

Our pathway is built around:

Age-appropriate coaching
Competitive opportunities
Personal growth and wellbeing
Alignment with England Hockey standards

U8 (Mixed)
├── Development Focus:

└─ Basic ball control, fun drills, introduction to game play
└─ Friendly tournament match play

U10
├── Development Focus:

└─ Develop team play, passing, shooting, introduction to positions
└─ Essex/ North League monthly tournaments

U12
├── Development Focus:

└─ Tactical skills, fitness, half pitch match play
└─ Essex/ North League monthly tournaments
└─ County Trials

U14
├── Development Focus:

└─ Advanced skills, strategy, physical conditioning
└─ England Hockey League, Friendlies, KO Cup
└─ Ladies /Men’s Team, County Trials

U16
├── Development Focus:

└─ High-level competition, leadership, mental resilience
└─ England Hockey League, Friendlies, KO Cup
└─ Ladies /Men’s Team, County Trials, Talent Academy Trials