A Family Affair at Masters Hockey: Steph & CJ’s Story

For Steph and Charlotte “CJ”, hockey has always been more than just a sport — it’s been a constant thread through different stages of life. Both players represent Horsham Hockey Club, their long-standing home club, and this season they found themselves sharing a particularly special Masters experience.

Different Paths, Same Pitch

Steph’s hockey journey has spanned many years, including playing National League indoor hockey earlier in her career. After stepping away due to a back injury, she rediscovered her love for the game this year — returning to competition and embracing Masters hockey.

CJ’s route into the sport began later, learning to play while at university in Dundee. Her progression saw her compete at the European Championships twice during her time in Scotland. However, this season marked a new milestone: her first England Masters trial.

Remarkably, CJ’s trial came just five weeks after the birth of her second daughter, Chloe.

Making It Work

With Chloe just four months old at the time of the tournament, logistics could have easily become a barrier. Instead, the flexibility of the Masters environment made participation possible — with Chloe joining Steph and CJ for the event.

The support extended well beyond the pitch. Players across the age groups, including the O35s, O60s, and O65s squads, created a genuinely inclusive and supportive atmosphere. Parents stepped in to help, while teammates and fellow competitors were more than happy to watch and care for Chloe when needed.

It’s a reflection of what makes Masters hockey unique — a community that enables players to continue competing, regardless of life stage.

Success on the World Stage

Both players capped off their experience with podium finishes:

• Steph – Silver medal with the O60s
• CJ – Gold medal with the O35s

A proud moment for both, and a testament to their commitment and love for the game.

CJ’s Experience

“It was such a welcoming environment, encouraging everyone to trial. For me, Andy F, our coach, made the process accessible and helped me feel comfortable given my situation.

I was able to play against some of my old teammates from Scotland — twice — which was really special and gave me the chance to catch up.

I also loved that all the age groups were at the same venue. Everyone supported each other, and it meant I could watch Mum play too.”

Steph’s Reflections

“It’s always great playing age group hockey instead of chasing 15-year-olds down a pitch!

Having played for so long, you always bump into people you know — which is lovely.

Through England, we’ve played against some fantastic overseas sides, and it’s amazing how people remember you — the catch-ups are always great.

I can’t wait to play more with this fantastic group of ladies and hopefully help share this great sport with more ‘oldies’.”

More Than Just Hockey

Steph and CJ’s story highlights the unique nature of Masters hockey — where performance and competition sit alongside community, flexibility, and lifelong participation.

From returning to the sport after injury, to competing just weeks after childbirth, their journey shows that hockey truly can be played — and enjoyed — at every stage of life.