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A Player Profile - Sam Cossey

A Player Profile - Sam Cossey

Secretary Repton HC26 Sep - 07:40
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https://www.reptonhockeyclub.c

M1s Player, Coach Development Lead & Club Junior Coach on his Repton HC Journey

This week we focus on a player’s journey with Repton HC. M1s player and junior coach Sam Cossey is a perfect example of how a player can develop both their hockey as well as their coaching skills in the club environment.

Co-Chair John Tarrant asked Sam some questions relating to his time with Repton HC…

Why do you think you were drawn to hockey at a young age?

My Dad played hockey and took me to all his games, bought my first stick and I played pitch side during his games

What team did you start playing for and when? Can you remember your first coach or any early standout coaches?

I started at Stratford upon Avon Hockey Club, playing in U10’s and then Badgers Hockey before starting league hockey in the 5th team which was the junior development team. I went along to lots of Hockey camps including Matt Taylors MT13 residential camps. My first standout coach was Chris Davies, he ran Stick2Hockey, he’s now at University of Birmingham

What RHC teams have you played for?

I have played in every Junior and Mens teams at Repton HC. Starting as a guest player at U14s, progressing through U16 and U18s.

What was your favourite RHC team to play for and why?

U18 Boys, National Winners, man of the match in the final, we really connected well, many of us had been playing since U14 together.

What have been your most memorable RHC experiences?

The U18 Boys National Final at Lee Valley and the U19 EHL tour to Holland picking up silverware. Also the opportunity to play indoor hockey and develop my skills even further.

When did you debut for the M1s?

2021/2022 Season - My first match was home to Leicester Panthers, the match was abandoned!

Many internationals and Olympians have been playing for RHC, who has been your favourite M1 player over the years?

Lloyd Madsden was a big influence (South African Olympian) and hugely supportive to all the younger players. His calming manner on the pitch, always happy to share his experience and give positive guidance.

What interested you about getting involved in coaching?

Seeing my Dad spend hours coaching, put something back into the sport, to share my knowledge and experience (so far) with the next generation of players. Boost my own abilities, coaching is a life-skill. I have learned planning skills and how to communicate with a range of different players

What EH coaching courses have you undertaken?
I have completed the following courses: Engaging Games for Children, Coaching Club Players, Sessional Coach Course (Level 2) and a Level 1 Umpiring Course.

What are you most looking forward to as Coach Development lead?

Supporting others, making the club coaching experience better, helping to deliver the Clubs plans and ethos

What are you most looking forward to in the 2024-25 season?

My first season in national league!

The coaching team at RHC all had the same comments to make about Sam and his journey, “ One of Sam’s key strengths has been his resilience which is probably due to the fact he just loves playing hockey. Sam has achieved a huge amount in the game through his positive outlook and commitment. If he had a setback he reassessed and came back stronger. A true role model for Repton HC”.

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