The Duke of York’s Royal Military School, more commonly called the Duke of Yorks, is a co-educational academy with military traditions in Dover and Kent.
It is open to pupils whose parents are serving, or who have served, in any branch of the Armed Forces for a minimum of four years. Founded in 1801 by HRH Frederick Duke of York, the school’s primary purpose was to educate the orphans of British servicemen killed in the Napoleonic wars.
The MoD remains the sponsor of the school even though it now has academy status and as part of our continued support for the military community, the Junior Hockey Development Programme was set up in September 2016 to improve the standard of hockey played and enjoyed at the school.
The group of Year 8s (under 13s) were identified as a talented bunch with great potential. They were also at the perfect developmental stage, where they could progress from mini 7-a-side games to playing full 11-a-side hockey
Stick At It
The plan is to work with this age group over the next four years, incorporating other juniors as they come through the ranks, to enhance the future success and competitive nature of the boys’ and girls’ first eleven hockey squads.
Thanks to our funding and the commitment of the school and the programme, 32 boys and girls and five members of staff spent their October half terms in 2016 and 2017 developing and enhancing their hockey skills in Holland.
A full report of the latest tour from Shane Cloete, the Director of Sports Clubs and Activities, commended every student for their effort and positive attitude.
Our very own military claims specialist Paul Harrington is a former pupil, if we go back a few decades, and has been responsible for liaising with the Duke of Yorks and maintaining close links with the school.
Hockey is a popular sport within the Military Injuries Claims team; with our experts’ Simon Harrington and Joseph Granelli both keen players, representing Newmarket and the City of Manchester respectively.
Inclusive Sport For All
Due to the work we do with those within the military who have suffered life changing injuries, as well the people who support and care for them, we recognise the psychological, social and rehabilitative benefits that physical activity and playing sport can bring
Our Don’t Quit, Do It campaign works with local grassroots clubs and charities to support inclusive sport like the ever popular Para Ice Hockey.
If you love hockey then you should consider an ice cool sport which is exciting, exhilarating and so unique that it can be enjoyed by disabled and able bodied people together.
Find out more at: irwinmitchell.com/dqdi/paraicehockey
Published: May 2018
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