Over the weekend, RINKit journeyed to Peterborough to extend our support to one of our youngest athletes, Isla. On loan to Peterborough from Grimsby, Isla showcased her talent in the U15 national league finals. Despite being just 11 years old, Isla impressed with remarkable saves and secured two clean sheets. Playing at this level at such a young age is a commendable feat, and Isla is undoubtedly gaining invaluable experience for her future endeavors. Our time spent with her on Saturday and Sunday was a privilege, and while Isla can be tough on herself, we at RINKit have unwavering faith in her abilities. We believe she is the future of English female Roller Hockey, and we are committed to supporting her journey to the top. Best of luck to Isla for the remainder of the season! For a glimpse of Isla's remarkable saves from the weekend, be sure to check out our Instagram stories.
The Helmet Debate Unveiled
In the fast-paced world of roller hockey, safety is taking centre stage, and a contentious debate on the use of helmets has emerged. As streaming brings the sport to younger audiences, questions arise about the future of head protection in roller hockey. Should we embrace helmets? Should they be compulsory, or a matter of choice?
Prokover helmet
Current Landscape: A Single Approved Helmet Raises Questions
At present, the Spanish-made Prokover helmet stands as the lone head protector approved by the World Skate Europe (WSE) for use in the sport. Questions surround the exclusivity of this endorsement, especially when considering the benefits of market competition for the sport.
Prospective Advantages of Helmet Adoption:
1. Injury Prevention:
Helmets are designed to shield players from potential head injuries, offering a layer of protection that can reduce the severity of impacts. There are several obvious risks of head injuries whilst playing our sport, the ball, a collision, a stick, another player, the barriers and the floor. A helmet may limit these impacts and subsequent injuries.
2. Safety Messaging:
Introducing helmets, particularly at the youth level, sends a powerful message about the sport's commitment to safety—a comforting notion for parents and newcomers alike.
3. Boosting Participation:
A safer playing environment may entice more individuals to embrace roller hockey, potentially growing the sport's popularity.
4. Aligning with International Standards:
Following the lead of other nations by mandating helmets up to a certain age aligns the sport with international safety standards.
Potential Hurdles to Overcome:
1. Player Resistance:
Concerns about comfort, restricted movement, and alterations to the game's essence may lead players to resist the mandatory use of helmets.
2. Financial Implications:
The additional cost of safety equipment could pose financial challenges for participants, potentially making the sport less accessible.
3. Limited Choices:
The current monopoly on approved helmets limits players' options, prompting questions about variety and personal preference.
4. Impact on Gameplay:
The perceived impact of helmets on the game's dynamics is a legitimate concern. Players worry about potential hindrances to their natural movements.
Charting the Course for the Future:
1. Research and Education:
Conduct comprehensive research to weigh the benefits and drawbacks of helmet use in roller hockey. Education initiatives can inform players and stakeholders alike.
2. Encouraging Market Competition:
Advocate for the approval of multiple helmet options, fostering healthy competition among manufacturers and providing players with more choices.
3. Gradual Implementation:
Consider a phased approach to helmet adoption, beginning with specific age groups or leagues to gauge player receptivity.
4. Collaborative Decision-Making:
Engage players, coaches, and other stakeholders in open discussions, addressing concerns and gathering valuable feedback for informed decision-making.
5. Promoting a Safety Culture:
Instill a culture of safety within the sport. Proper training on helmet use and maintenance, coupled with responsible play, should be paramount.
As roller hockey navigates this crossroads, the decision to embrace helmets requires a delicate balance between safety imperatives, player preferences, and the overall sporting experience. Continuous reevaluation and adaptation to emerging safety technologies will be crucial in securing a vibrant and secure future for roller hockey.
Exciting News: Goalkeeper Isla Procter Joins RINKit Athletes
RINKit Athletes is thrilled to introduce our newest team member, Isla Procter, our youngest athlete to date! We eagerly anticipate the incredible partnership that lies ahead as we collaborate with Isla to help her achieve her roller hockey dreams. Isla has already amassed an impressive list of achievements, and we can't wait to see her continue to excel.
Isla's remarkable accomplishments include:
U9's Eastern Counties Cup Winner, Kings Lynn 2021-22 (Age: U9)
U11's National Cup Winner, Middlesbrough 2021-22 (Age: U11)
National Player of the Year U11's 2021-22 (Age: U11)
U11's Inter-Regional Winner 2021-22 (Age: U11)
U11 KO Eastern Cup, Kings Lynn 2022-23 (Age: U11)
U11 National Cup Winner, Kings Lynn 2022-23 (Age: U11)
U11 League Eastern Winner, Kings Lynn 2022-23 (Age: U11)
Playing at U13s in the same year 2022-23 (Age: U13)
U13's National Cup, Manchester 2022-23 (Age: U13)
U13's National Youth League Winners, Manchester 2022-23 (Age: U13)
Northern Counties Cup Winner U13's, Manchester 2022-23 (Age: U13)
Isla's accomplishments are a testament to her dedication and talent, and we are excited to support her on her journey toward even greater success. Welcome to the RINKit Athletes family, Isla!
Scott Neville's Hat-Trick Leads Soham RHC to a 4-0 Victory Over RHC Invicta
Soham RHC hosted RHC Invicta last night at the Ross Peers Sports Centre in another National Premier League encounter. With Invicta still in search of their first win and Soham eager to maintain their winning start, the game was filled with anticipation.
In the opening five minutes, it was Invicta who took control of the game, applying pressure on Soham and creating several promising opportunities. However, they struggled to convert these chances into goals. Soham, too, had their moments, coming close to scoring and even hitting the post.
Invicta decided to shake things up by introducing Tom Mills to their attack. Despite this change, it was Soham's main man, Scott Neville, who broke the deadlock, giving Soham a 1-0 lead as the first half came to a close.
Scott Neville In action
The second half commenced with both teams maintaining a similar tempo. Just seven minutes into the half, Scott Neville struck again, with his trademark run and finishing expertly at the back post, doubling Soham's lead to 2-0. A minute later, Soham extended their advantage to 3-0, courtesy of James Neville.
With just eight minutes remaining, Scott Neville completed his hat-trick, making it 4-0 in favour of Soham. Invicta continued to press for a breakthrough, but they couldn't find one.
In the end, the final score stood at Soham 4-0 Invicta, with Soham maintaining their strong start to the season.
Bowyer and Franks Take the Helm as England U19 Coach & Manager
Coaches from RINKit and RHC Invicta Senior team, Bowyer and Franks, have officially been named as the new England U19 roller hockey Coach & Manager. Their appointment, effective immediately, signifies a pivotal juncture in their careers.
Expressing their shared enthusiasm, Bowyer and Franks released a joint statement, saying, "Leading your country at any level is a tremendous honor, and we are fully committed to giving it our all. We're excited about the promising talent pool available to us, and the real work begins now!"
This marks Bowyer's debut as an England coach. Despite his relatively young age of 38, he brings an impressive 31-year legacy in the sport. Assisting him is Franks, aged 52, who has already secured two championships and brings a wealth of experience as a coach and mentor, both in his daily work and his own sporting achievements in motorsport. David Franks introduces a unique and enthusiastic perspective to the game of Roller Hockey.
For the past two years, this dynamic coaching duo has worked side by side at Invicta, showcasing their ability to build a strong team in the Premier League. With their combined expertise, the future looks bright for England's U19 roller hockey team.
Their appointment is accompanied by a shout-out to the other dedicated age-grade coaches and managers; here is a list of all the other age-grade coaches and managers. Well done to them all.
Weekend of Premier League Action: Goals Galore in Five Exciting Matches
Match Report: Grimsby RHC vs Manchester RHC
This weekend marked the return of Grimsby to the Premier League, with five top-flight teams in action. In the opening match of the day, Grimsby faced off against Manchester, who had already secured a victory in their first game. Grimsby introduced a fresh, youthful lineup for this encounter.
The game started with Grimsby taking an early lead, courtesy of C. Greenwood. However, Manchester quickly responded, as D. Gordon found the back of the net just four minutes later. This equaliser appeared to ignite Manchester's offense, with I. Gaggioli and D. Gordon both adding more goals to their tally before halftime, resulting in a commanding 4-1 lead for Manchester.
As the second half started, Manchester continued to dominate proceedings, firmly establishing control over the match. The final scoreline reflected their dominance, with Manchester emerging as 12-3 victors. Coach Messenger maintained his winning streak, securing a promising start to the season for Manchester.
Match Report: Peterborough RHC vs Soham RHC
In the second game of the day, it was Peterborough facing off against Soham. Soham made an impressive debut with three new recruits - C. Adams, M. Walker, and J. Richards - demonstrating a serious commitment to strengthening their squad during the summer.
To the surprise of many, it was Peterborough who struck first, with M. Carter finding the net. However, Soham quickly responded, with J. Neville equalising just four minutes later. Shortly before the first half ended, Soham took the lead, with M. Walker scoring on his debut for the club.
The second half began with Soham continuing their attacking prowess, adding two more goals to their tally courtesy of S. Neville and Walker, who notched his second of the match. Peterborough managed to pull one back with a goal from J. Berry, but Soham still had one more goal left in them, as Captain S. Neville scored his second.
The final scoreline stood at 5-2 in favour of Soham. With this impressive performance, many are now considering Soham as a serious contender for the title, thanks to their strong recruitment and dynamic play on the Rink.
Match Report: Middlesbrough RHC vs Herne Bay United RH&SC
In the third game of the day, Middlesbrough clashed with Herne Bay United. United entered the match with hopes of building on their strong performance from the previous season, fielding a youthful squad. However, they faced a challenge in Middlesbrough, known for their resilient and well-organised team under Coach Fontes.
Unfortunately for Herne Bay United, this turned out to be a difficult day on the Rink. At halftime, they found themselves trailing 4-1, with Middlesbrough in the driver's seat. The second half didn't bring much respite, as Middlesbrough continued to dominate, adding five more goals to their tally.
Middlesbrough's goal scorers included M. Todd, S. Johnson, H. Pickering, and L. Pickering, with H. Pickering contributing an impressive five goals to the scoreline. Herne Bay United managed to pull one goal back, courtesy of W. Hosking.
The final scoreline reflected Middlesbrough's dominance, with a resounding 9-1 victory over Herne Bay United. It was a challenging day for HBU, but Middlesbrough's performance showcased their strength and determination on the Rink.
Match Report: Ely & Chesterton UTD RHC vs Herne Bay RHC
In the fourth game of the day, Ely & Chesterton United took on Herne Bay, and it proved to be another challenging day for Herne Bay. At halftime, Herne Bay found themselves trailing 4-1, with Ely & Chesterton United firmly in control.
The second half didn't bring any relief for Herne Bay, as they struggled to mount a comeback while ECU continued to press forward. The match concluded with a final score of 9-2, highlighting the dominance of Ely & Chesterton United.
Goal-scorers for ECU included K. Brady, J. Bostos, M. Dunand, and H. Dunand, while Herne Bay managed to find the net through A. Cathcart and Z. Williams.
With two consecutive losses, Herne Bay faced a challenging start to their season. The next game would be crucial for them as they sought to secure a much-needed win and regain their momentum.
Match Report: RHC Invicta vs Kings Lynn
In the fifth game of the day, fans were treated to an exciting showdown between RHC Invicta and Kings Lynn, and it certainly lived up to the anticipation. Last season, Kings Lynn had comfortably defeated Invicta 14-2, but this time, the match took a different turn.
Kings Lynn took the lead when Invicta's captain slipped on the halfway line, allowing Taylor to capitalise and score, putting Kings Lynn ahead 1-0. However, just two minutes later, Invicta was awarded a penalty, and Martindale made no mistake, converting it to level the score at 1-1.
The game continued to deliver intense action, with a 12-minute gap until the next goal, this time in favour of Invicta, as M. Albon netted a fantastic goal. But Kings Lynn quickly responded, with J. Griffin grabbing his first goal, making it 2-2. The match was fast-paced and physical, featuring two strong teams battling it out.
With just four minutes left in the first half, T. Mills found the back of the net for Invicta, giving them a 3-2 lead. However, Kings Lynn once again equalised with J. Griffin notching his second goal, bringing the score to 3-3 at halftime.
The second half kicked off with the same intensity as the first. Within two minutes, A. Franks scored for Invicta, taking them ahead 4-3. However, the reigning champions, Kings Lynn, responded with three consecutive goals, with two from J. Taylor and one from B. McCarthy, making it 6-4 in their favour.
Invicta didn't back down, and T. Mills secured his second goal of the game, narrowing the score to 6-5 in favour of Kings Lynn. But just two minutes later, J. Tucker extended Kings Lynn's lead to 7-5. Invicta fought back once more, with A. Franks scoring another goal, but it wasn't enough to overcome Kings Lynn.
In the end, the thrilling match concluded with Kings Lynn emerging victorious with a narrow margin, winning 7-6 against RHC Invicta. It was an outstanding display of skill and determination from both teams, providing an unforgettable game for the spectators.
Premier League Kicks Off with Manchester's 7-4 Thriller and Peterborough's 3-2 Victory Over Herne Bay
Match Reports Below
Manchester's Captain, Gordon, wasted no time and swiftly opened the scoring for the home team. Less than five minutes later, D'Annatassio added to the excitement by notching a second goal, giving Manchester a 2-0 lead. Middlesbrough, however, was determined to level the playing field and soon found the back of the net courtesy of Johnson. Middlesbrough's persistent efforts paid off when L. Pickering equalised, making it 2-2. As the first half progressed, the game became a bit scrappy, but with just two minutes remaining, D'Annatassio completed his brace, leaving the score at 3-2 in favour of Manchester RHC at halftime.
The second half kicked off with Middlesbrough launching another spirited offensive. Johnson showcased his skills once more by securing his second goal of the match. Unfortunately for Middlesbrough, a momentary lapse in concentration allowed Manchester to capitalise, with three goals coming in quick succession – one from Darwent-Black and two from Carter. Middlesbrough did manage to pull one goal back, thanks to Czifra, but Manchester still had one more goal in them. With just 45 seconds left on the clock, Taylor found the back of the net, sealing a first-game victory for the new head coach, Dan Messenger.
In a thrilling encounter, Manchester RHC emerged victorious, 7-4, in their first game under the leadership of Dan Messenger.
2nd Game of the weekend featured a clash between Herne Bay RHC and Peterborough RHC. The match got off to a slow start, with both teams searching for opportunities. However, it was Peterborough who broke the deadlock when Hillam found the back of the net, just four minutes into the game. Herne Bay managed to level the score shortly after, with Webber scoring the equaliser. Herne Bay then took the lead with a long-range shot that deflected off a Peterborough player and ended up in the back of the net, with Salkind credited for the goal, making it 2-1 in favour of Herne Bay.
The second half commenced with both teams hungry for goals. A moment of brilliance came from Hillam, who volleyed the ball low and hard, leaving the goalkeeper with no chance to make a save. However, there was one more twist in the game, as Peterborough secured the victory with a goal from Aaltonen, sealing the final score at 3-2 in favour of Peterborough.
The 23-24 Premier League Kicks Off with Exciting Matches Ahead
The Premier League is back, and fans of roller hockey across England are gearing up for an action-packed season. The teams are eager to resume old rivalries and challenge the dominance of the reigning champions, Kings Lynn RHC.
The first match of the season is scheduled for this coming Saturday, September 30th, as rivals Manchester Roller Hockey Club and Middlesbrough Roller Hockey Club face off. The match will commence at 17:15 and will be officiated by referees Bruno Sosa and Marco Mota. The venue for this clash is the Ardwick Sports Hall, located at Stockport Road, Manchester M12 4DY.
The following day, Sunday, October 1st, Herne Bay Rink Hockey Club will host Peterborough Roller Hockey Club in what is anticipated to be another thrilling game to start the season. The game is scheduled to begin at 11:15 and will be overseen by referees Arran Bowyer and Jack Thomas. Roller Hockey Hockey enthusiasts can catch the action at the Bay Sports Arena, situated on Bullockstone Road, Herne Bay CT6 7NS.
The excitement doesn't stop there, as the league promises an action-packed schedule in the weeks ahead. Fans are encouraged to mark their calendars, as the Premier League offers an excellent opportunity to witness top-tier English roller hockey in their local communities. All participating teams are looking forward to the support of their fans, so make sure to head to a venue near you.
The Premier League's return is set to reignite the passion for roller hockey, and with the competition stronger than ever, fans can expect a season filled with intense matches, incredible goals, and unforgettable moments. Stay tuned for more updates as the Premier League 2024 unfolds, and let the roller hockey excitement begin!