Local MP Caroline Dinenage showed her support for Gosport Borough Hockey Club during the regional MiniFest tournament which took place last weekend.
Each month during the hockey season, young teams from across Hampshire and West Sussex get together to participate in an informal tournament. The MiniFest matches are designed to support the development of young players by allowing them to put into practice the skills they learn on the training ground, whilst having fun playing against other clubs.
The tournaments have been taking place for the past five years and target the Under 8 and Under 10 age groups. This month, it was Gosport Borough Hockey Club's turn to host the event on grounds at St Vincent College.
Reflecting on the MiniFest, Caroline said:
"I am passionate about getting young people in our area enthusiastic about sport; events such as these are absolutely essential to doing that. Not only is sport a great way to develop a healthy lifestyle, it also teaches children how to work well in a team which is why we must do all we can to promote sporting opportunities to young people.
I am delighted that we have outstanding local coaches, volunteers and teachers who are committed to upholding the legacy of London 2012 in our area. I hope that the new sporting facilities coming soon to Bridgemary School and Bay House School will encourage young people to get involved."
Caroline was recently appointed as a Parliamentary Sport Champion and frequently works with local schools and sports clubs to ensure that children in Gosport are given every available opportunity to get into sport.
