Wychwood Ladies Committee
The Committee Team
Paula Bonham-Samuels
Chairperson
I was a dedicated hockey player up until my early 20’s and then I took a long break from the game (not wishing to disclose my age in any detail!) I returned to the pitch for Wychwood LHC in 2023, proving its never too late! I felt at home instantly at Wychwood and I am the new Chairperson of Wychwood LHC for the 2024/25 season. My love for the game of hockey has never been stronger.
Contact me at wychwood.chair@gmail.com
Catherine Forteath
Vice Chair
Catherin started playing hockey at the age of 14 at Henry Box School and then joined Wychwood L.H.C when she was 17. She has always played an active part in the running and development of the club having acted as Chairperson between May 2016 and May 2022. As vice chair it is her job to support the chairperson in running the club. Her passion is for all ages and abilities to be able to enjoy the wonderful game of hockey at our club!
Rachel Manners
Secretary
Rachel joined the club over 25 years ago following in her mother's footsteps. Having watched her mum play for the club (and still plays) in her younger years she was keen to join as soon as she turned 13 and have been actively involved ever since as a general committee member, Vice-Captain and currently as the club Secretary. It is her role to take the minutes of the committee meetings and keep everyone in the club up to date with all of the goings on by the committee.
Contact me at wychwood.secretary@gmail.com
Josie Hemmings
Treasurer & Fixtures Secretary
Josie has been a member of Wychwood LHC since 2020 after relocating to the area. With a passion for numbers she offered her skills as treasurer this season and is looking forward to taking on the role. It’s her job to ensure that the clubs accounts are maintained and balance, along with collecting member fees and making all club payments. She is also responsible for ensuring all of our pitches are booked for fixtures and training.
Contact me at Wychwood.treasurer1@gmail.com
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Fraser Barnard
Head Coach
As a member of Witney mens 1's, Fraser is well equipped to deliver high quality coaching sessions for both our ladies 1's and 2's. His passion for the sport and challenging practises has allowed our members to challenge themselves and reach new heights in their playing abilities.
Contact me at Wychwood.coach@gmail.com
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Tom Dobson
Assistant Coach
Tom assists with coaching our club. Yet another hockey enthusiast as a member of the Witney mens, we are excited to have his input to help our members develop their skills further.
Contact me at Wychwood.coach@gmail.com
Talitha Johnson
2nd Team Captain
Talitha, AKA T, has been part of the club since 2019. Keen to get back into hockey since leaving school, she was thrilled to find a club so friendly and welcome.
Contact me at Wychwood2s.captain@gmail.com
Lizzie and Emma
Development Officers and New Players
As development officers it is their aim to continue to seek ways to help our club and its members to grow and flourish.
Contact me at Wychwooddevelopment1@gmail.com
Aryn Deasy
U18 Rep
Aryn has been playing for Wychwood LHC since 2021 and loves the supportive and welcoming environment found here. She is keen to be a more active member and learn about the running of the club.
Courtney Smith
Covid Officer
It only took Courtney a few seasons of playing to realise she wanted to take more of an active role within the club. She first took on running the monthly Wychwood Lottery, this was quickly followed by second team vice captain, captain and our Covid officer on the committee. Within these roles, Courtney hopes to lead by example and develop a warm and safe environment within our club.
Contact me at Wychwood.covid@gmail.com
Our Presidents and Vice Presidents
Wychwood Ladies Hockey Club is headed by a President and Vice Presidents who are former players or people who have significantly contributed to the club.
Presidents and Vice Presidents are offered honorary membership of the club including voting rights. They are also invited to matches and teas at The White Hart on a Saturday when they can also watch current teams play and catch up with old friends.
President - Paula Crowther
Having been a player for the club since 1973, Paula has had an ongoing involvement in the club since retiring from playing. During her time as a player, Paula was one of the longest reigning Captains of the ladies 1s and helped the ladies to achieve promotion. As a natural leader and stalwart defender it was a sad day when she decided to retire from playing but we are thrilled to have her as our club President.
Vice Presidents
Anne Dobson and Helen Saunders have been active members of the club since its early days. They have taken on many roles in the club between them from captain to vice-captain and various committee member roles. Although they have all now retired from playing they all keep a close eye on the club and volunteer as and when its needed.