The Netherlands became the winner of the Grand Masters (60+) event at the European SuperVeterans Trophy Tournament for the first time in hockey history, defeating England (GM European champions). The Great Grand Masters (65+) was won by England who defeated Germany in the Final.

In the Senior Grand Masters event (70+), 3 teams, England, Germany and The Netherlands took part, with Germany coming out winners, and The Netherlands second. The Tournament Trophy for non-national teams was won by England LX Red with Alliance 2 as runners-up.

The Grand Masters tournament was held for the first time in Spain at the Junior FC club in Sant Cugat del Vallès, Barcelona. This event was organized under the auspices of the World Grand Masters Association (WGMA) with the full support of FIH/EHF.

WGMA was formally recognized at the FIH Congress in London in 2006 as being the sole organization responsible for Veterans hockey for players of age 60 and over in the world.

The tournament was organized with the kind assistance of Leandro Negre, President of the European Hockey Federation (EHF), who, despite his duties at the Euro Hockey League tournament at nearby Club Egara, frequently appeared to watch the matches.

Other prominent guests on the evening were Mr. & Mrs. Martin Gotheridge (Vice President of EFH and President of England Hockey), and Mr. Jan Albers (President of the Royal Netherlands Hockey Federation (KNHB), who all expressed enthusiasm for the WGMA’s efforts in organizing such events for Veteran hockey players of 60 and over in Europe and the rest of the world.

Bernard Verbunt (Vice President of WGMA) did an outstanding job as Tournament Director. Bernard, together with Peter Child (WGMA President), did the major work in the difficult task of organizing such an event for the first time on Spanish soil. It is hoped that the standard of hockey displayed will encourage Spain to organize a Grand Masters team for future tournaments.

Altogether 19 teams took part:

60+ Grand Masters : England, The Netherlands (De Zestigplussers), Scotland, Germany, Italy and Wales (first appearance).

65+ Great Grand Masters : England, The Netherlands (De Zestigplussers), Scotland, Germany.

70+ Senior Grand Masters (first time!) : England, Germany, The Netherlands (De Zestigplussers)

Tournament Trophy : England LX (2 teams), Germany B, Alliance 2 teams), De Zestigplussers.

Despite the cold weather, the tournament proved to be a great success, and was well organized, with excellent hockey played in a friendly atmosphere. Over 300 players took part.

Thanks are also due to Marcos Hofmann, Chairman of the Junior FC Hockey, for his efforts in having everything well organized at the excellent Club facilities and pitches.

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Source: WGMA