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Ginnie

We spoke to Ginnie, one of last year’s Back to Hockey girls, and asked her to tell us about her experience…

How did you hear about Back to Hockey?

Facebook!  One Saturday night, glass of wine in one hand, mobile in the other and saw the Back to Hockey Page pop up.  Never seen an opportunity to do something like this before, and it really sparked my interest.   I shared the page in the hopes that I could encourage someone else to come with me and before I knew it, I got chatting online to JoJo. 

Had you played Hockey before?

Not for 30 years since school!   I really enjoyed playing for the school team then and often thought about playing again, but never really knew a route back to playing hockey and I always found the thought of the hockey club somewhat intimidating – how wrong was I !    

What made you come along?

I guess it was words of encouragement from JoJo, Tracy and Helen.  I was worried about my skill level, level of fitness, unsure of the rules (still am!),  age – everything really!  I’m not a highly skilled player  but when I found out that all us ‘Back to Hockiers’ were in the same boat I felt a lot more reassured.  It’s also incredibly friendly and everyone was so accommodating.   I set myself a mission this year to get a lot fitter (like I do every year!) but now I really am!!

Were you nervous?

God yes.  Fear of the unknown!  Coupled with absolutely no confidence, I can safely say I felt like I’d really achieved something after braving that first session.   I was particularly proud of myself as I knew no-one and braved it alone.

What was it like?

Fantastic!  Very satisfying.  It was quite liberating to hit a ball again after all these years.  I’ve realised that I am so much more motivated when I play competitively.  I get easily bored at the gym or out jogging, but when I am challenged in this way, the team camaraderie spurs me on to keep going and of course, not give in like I did on the treadmill !

What happened after Back to Hockey?

I was invited to play with the 4th team –  I was well chuffed – I never thought in a million years I would be playing in a hockey team again, in a grown up league!  I’m fortunate enough now to be part of a great hockey family with great spirit, getting fitter all the time and actually enjoying exercise!  I’ve also managed to score a few goals along the way which gave me such a buzz again and I’ve also made some great friends along the way.  Just wish I’d discovered it earlier.   

Find out all about this year’s Back to Hockey here