Free open day aims to get Oldham families playing hockey
Oldham Hockey Club is opening its doors to the local community with a free open day on Saturday 8 August, running from 11:00am to 1:30pm at Newman Catholic College in Chadderton. The club says the event is designed to welcome newcomers, welcome back former players and give existing members a relaxed chance to play before the 2026/27 season begins.
Activities will be tailored so everyone can join in: coaches and volunteers will split participants into groups by age and experience and run skills sessions and small-sided games. Equipment is being provided on the day, which the club highlights as a way to remove barriers for families who might not own sticks or pads.
“We want to make hockey in Oldham accessible to everyone. It’s a fantastic sport for both physical and mental wellbeing and our summer open day is the perfect, pressure-free way to try it out,”
Jordanna Rawlinson, the club’s development officer, also thanked local supporters for helping stage the event. The open day has received sponsorship from local business UK Decs, which the club says has allowed it to expand activities this year.
| Event | Date / Time | Location |
|---|---|---|
| Summer Open Day | Saturday 8 August, 11:00–13:30 | Newman Catholic College, Chadderton |
| Junior Summer Hockey | Thursdays until 13 August, 18:30–19:30 | Astley Leisure Centre sports pitch, Dukinfield |
| Weekly training (2026/27 season) | From Thursday 3 September | Newman Catholic College |
The club is also running junior summer sessions for children aged five to 16. Those sessions take place at the Astley Leisure Centre sports pitch in Dukinfield on Thursday evenings and cost £4 per session, with siblings able to attend for £2 each.
Oldham Hockey Club points out its long local history — more than 70 years — and says the open day is part of its ongoing effort to remain a community hub for the town and surrounding Saddleworth villages. Regular weekly training for both junior and senior teams will resume on Thursday 3 September at Newman Catholic College.
How to take part
- No kit is required on the day — hockey sticks will be available to borrow.
- Activities suited to every age and ability, with club members running sessions.
- Information and registration details are available via the club website and social channels.
For further details or to register interest for the open day, residents are directed to the club’s website at www.oldhamhockey.org.uk/open-day or to search for Oldham Hockey Club on Facebook and Instagram.
