Doncaster Hockey Club held its Annual General Meeting on Sunday 27th April 2025, with a fantastic turnout from our membership. As we approach our landmark 125th anniversary, the AGM marked a key moment in reflecting on our recent successes and setting the course for the next exciting chapter in the club’s development.

The club continues to go from strength to strength both on and off the pitch. Thanks to the dedication of our volunteers, partners, and supporters, we are proud of the positive strides made in player development and performance in the senior leagues.

This year’s AGM also marked the conclusion of an exceptional era, as Chairman Neal Deakin stepped down after three outstanding years at the helm. Neal’s tireless commitment and leadership have significantly advanced the club’s operations, culture, and facilities. While he is stepping aside from the Chair role, we are delighted that Neal will remain on the committee to lead on all things facilities and continue to provide his invaluable expertise.

We are pleased to announce Spencer Fearn as our new Chair. Spencer brings a wealth of experience across the sports and education sectors. He has owned or co-owned professional football clubs in both England and Scotland, served as a director in professional Rugby Union, a professional boxing promotions and management company, and was Vice-Chairman of the Sheffield Wednesday Foundation for several years. In addition to his sporting background, Spencer has spent three decades in education, successfully leading multiple businesses and currently overseeing the Sports Business and Business of Football degrees at University Academy 92 in Manchester – an institution owned by the iconic Manchester United Class of ‘92. He holds four UK master’s degrees (or equivalents) and two international masters’ from the Netherlands, with specialisms in Sports Business, Coaching, and Leadership. Neal will be supporting Spencer over the coming months in terms of a handover period.

We are also pleased to confirm that Sue Matthews will serve as Club President for the coming year. The committee will continue to benefit from the dedication and expertise of Bev Deakin, Anna Clish, Jonathan Causier, Tim Jones, Saskia Shakesheff, Pam Bate, Ian Christlo, and Lewis Hilditch, with Alan Stoves continuing in his valued role as Board Advisor.

As with all community-based sports clubs, volunteers are the heartbeat of our progress. As we look to the future, we are keen to welcome new faces to our volunteer team. If you are interested in helping shape the future of Doncaster Hockey Club, we would love to hear from you. Please contact Spencer at spencer@learnaliving.co.uk.

Here’s to an exciting year ahead as we celebrate 125 years of Doncaster Hockey Club.

Thanks to our sponsors:
DC Tailormade Journeys, Avalon, Believe Money Group, Hawsons, The Regent Hotel, Home Farm & Lodge, Rectified Electrical, Print Broker Services, Mortgage Line Services, JHA Architecture, Wakefield Grammar School, Yorkshire Caravans & Motorhomes, Xeinadin, The Salutation, Relish Bar & Grill, Hather Plant Hire, The Salutation, CF Booth Ltd