OMT Hockey Club are delighted to announce that, following a careful selection process with the Committee, Alex Hayes will be joining us as Director of Hockey for a two year period starting in July 2025.

Alex is a Level 4 coach who specialises in individual development within tactical and strategic settings. Having gained an MSc in Sports Coaching from the University of Stirling, he graduated from the Great Britain Advanced Coach Programme as part of Cohort 3 in 2019. With experience in a number of Director of Hockey and Head Coaching roles across England, Scotland, and the USA, Alex has also coached extensively within the Performance Centre and Junior NAGS performance pathways. He has previously had success with National League clubs in outdoor and indoor environments across both Ladies and Mens teams, as well as gaining experience working for National Governing Bodies in other sports such as cricket, tennis, and badminton. He is currently studying for a Professional Doctorate in Sports Coaching with a focus of ethics and effectiveness. Alex lives in Northwood with his fiancée, Naomi, and their goldendoodle Rosie, and are expecting their first child in November.

Commenting on his appointment, Alex said “I’m extremely excited to take up this new role with OMTHC. I’ve been involved in the Junior Coaching and umpiring side of the club for the past 12 months, and there are some brilliant people already doing amazing things to help develop hockey in this area. I’m excited to work alongside colleagues at Merchant Taylors’ School and with other schools, clubs, and coaches in this area to help fulfil the potential of the amazing facilities and history of OMTHC. I’m really looking forward to supporting the extremely talented players we already have at the club, as well as meeting new players across Ladies, Junior and Mens sections who are looking to develop their game as well as enjoy the social aspects of this great club.”

As a club, we have ambitious plans to grow across all sections and Alex will be central to achieving this. Alex has an impressive track record and has been involved with the club as an umpire, with the Junior section and with the school over the last year, so he already understands the important links between the school and the club and the values that we share. Alex will be hitting the ground running as we prepare for the new season, so please make him feel welcome and give him your full support.

On behalf of the OMT HC Committee

Philip Hay-Jahans, Chairman OMT HC