It really is a scary thought to me that it only feels like yesterday I was sat writing my speech to run for Hallam Hockey Social Sec 2019/20. I can still remember all the self-doubt and anxiety I had about taking that step out of my comfort zone and running for such a big role within the club. What made my journey unique is that I ran for the role individually and I knew how amazing all the other paired girls were, yet I stayed confident and eager to make sure that I stated my true and genuine intentions and got the opportunity to showcase my personality in such a fitting role throughout the year. The last year as social sec has honestly been one of the most enjoyable, insightful, uplifting and sometimes stressful experiences in my life. I have honestly had such a great year on the committee and I cannot thank the girls enough for their support throughout the year. Hallam Hockey to me is my second family, I have made some extremely incredible friendships and I have the most amazing support network. Bonds that I have made with you hockey girls are like no other, the club offers a different sort of friendship that can only be understood by us Hallam girls. This I believe is what our club is about.
I genuinely believe in a club where regardless of age, ability or identity we are all one. We represent the same values, we uplift one another, we are inclusive to all and we are open to change. I believe that this is something that should be instilled and cherished in such a large club like ours and protected for years to come. I know that by becoming Chairwoman I can uphold the highest of standards in a fun and professional way. I have, like many, experienced some ups and downs during my time at Hallam. I have experienced attacks on my sexual identity and I have struggled personally and reached the lowest of low. Yet I want to use this positively and allow it to drive and uplift me to make a difference and be heard. I will as chairwoman; promote diversity through various charity events and social media campaigns, I want Team Hallam and other sports clubs to know who we are and what we stand for. I will also ensure that all committee members, including captains will have appropriate training in mental health and support as I strongly believe that all club members should have at least one person they know they can talk to about anything at all. Whether you are a fresher, second year, third year or even fourth year and regardless of your team and role, I strongly believe in the saying that Hallam Hockey is one club, not five teams, we are one big family and we are all equally valued members of the club.
I want to use the size and influence of Hallam hockey to put our club out there and to be highly recognised by Team Hallam, Sport Sheffield and both universities, I want our club to be talked about (all good things) and I want it’s members to be proud of who they represent. I strongly believe that there is so much potential with our club and I would love the opportunity to showcase this next year and be your voice. I would continue support with our development team and work on growing its ranks and rotating its players. Having spent two years in the 4’s I can confidently say that growth in the lower teams happens all the time and all girls should be given the chance to earn their place on the right team frequently, after all isn’t this what our club is about? I want to set each time monthly targets to raise a set amount of funds for chosen charities, I want to set regular committee meetings to hear feedback from all and develop on issues. I want girls who go above and beyond to be recognised and their efforts showcased. I am not naïve to the level of hard work that goes into being chairwoman and I know how testing it would be, but as a strong willed and open minded Bolton girl, no challenge is ever too big!
Ultimately, I want to continue to be a friendly and approachable face around the club, I want to continue networking with other teams and broadening our horizons. I want you girls to know that I am willing to work extremely hard to make a massive difference to the club and I will always put YOU at the centre of everything I do! Hallam Hockey is the biggest family you will ever be a part of, I want you all to know that I have your best interests at heart and will not disappoint if elected Hallam Hockey Chairwoman 2020/21.