Slough/Surbiton Merger rejected

by Mike Haymonds (11.9.2009)

SLOUGH LADIES’ plans for a merger of its first team with Surbiton Hockey Club were rejected by the club’s members at Tuesday’s Extraordinary General Meeting.

The proposed change had been brought about by two factors in recent months. Reading’s promotion to the national Premier League for the coming season means Slough now have a local rival in attracting top players and they continue to struggle to find a regular top-quality coach.

The merger proposal at Tuesday’s meeting required a change to the club’s constitution and failed to reach the necessary two-thirds majority by some way.

Slough captain Fiona Greenham told the Express: “I’m extremely disappointed and concerned about the sustainability of the team for this and future seasons.

“That said, there is sufficient determined support within the squad to explore all the opportunities open to us.”

Slough HC chairman Surjit Sandhu said: “This has been a wake-up call for the club but the meeting recognised the need for urgent action. We are firmly committed to resolve the playing, coaching and financial issues faced by the Ladies’ first team and create a strong and sustainable squad”.

A press statement issued by the club stated: “There was a clear recognition that a very focused and committed club effort was required to address the challenges faced by the Ladies’ first team immediately."

“Club members voted in favour of a dedicated task force utilising the significant experience in the whole club to resolve priority matters especially around player recruitment and coaching structures".

“Slough HC will continue with making rapid progress at the grassroots level to continue the club’s growth in recent years and to create a hockey centre of excellence that the local area deserves.”

A spokesperson for Surbiton said: “We welcomed the initial approach to our club by senior officials of Slough with regard to a collaborative arrangement to help ensure the maintenance of sustainable excellence at Slough".

“We fully respect the decision of Slough’s members not to support the proposed merger, with regret, and we wish Slough all the best for the forthcoming season.”

copy for Slough Express 11.9.2009