- Competitions & Events
More About our Area Award Winners for 2026 (3 of 3)
The winners of the East Area Awards were announced on 8th May. We thought it would be good to profile our winners further - and why they were the winners, in this, the first year, of our Awards.
The details below are taken from their nomination form.
This is the final of three articles that will profile our winners.
Coach of the Year
Winner – Grant Homann
Grant immediately transformed the environment at Luton Hockey Club through an inclusive and supportive approach, ensuring every player felt valued and part of the team … His impact has been remarkable. The team achieved back-to-back promotions, culminating in a third consecutive promotion into Division 1 in the 2025/26 season.
Womens Team of the Year
Winner – Braintree HC Ladies 1s
Braintree L1s embody teamwork, resilience and inclusivity. Over the past two seasons they’ve earned back‑to‑back promotions — and three three in four years (from division 3SE to East premier) with several original squad members still contributing.
The team has created a welcoming culture where players of all backgrounds and experience levels feel supported. New members are integrated quickly, building a strong sense of belonging and encouraging everyone to develop and play their part.
Outstanding School Engagement of the Year
Winner – Richard Temple
Richard has given up his time and money to help build hockey within an all girls state school (Hertfordshire & Essex High School). He runs clubs on weekends/weekdays to help engage more girls into the sport. He has bought the school sticks, GK kit, balls and team shirts. He gives up his free time to help umpire their games at regional tournaments and has provided transport for far away fixtures. His love for the sport has rubbed off on so many people.
Judith Masters, one of the Area Award judges and a Director of East Hockey commented: “We would like to congratulate all our winners and hope some of them win their category at the National Awards when they are presented on Saturday 6th June at the Athena in Leicester.”
For further information on the Awards – including the winners from other regions please see: www.englandhockey.co.uk/competitions-and-events/england-hockey-awards.