Pelicans goalkeepers coached by England and GB star Maddie

Young Pelicans Hockey Club goalkeepers, Lucy Sagrott (13) and Mollie Gromett (15), had their dreams come true.

They attended a coaching camp and met England, GB and Olympic gold medal winner Maddie Hinch.

The world’s best goalkeeper, 2016 and 2017, has organised a series of specific goalkeeping coaching camps around the country with her dedicated company MH1. The girls attended one in Hertfordshire along with another 94 young keepers under the age of 18.

They were split into groups of six to seven with similar ages and experience. The camp had 16 quality coaches plus Maddie as head coach to pass on their skills and experience.

They had, over the day, eight different coaching sessions in very hot conditions. Throughout the day Maddie was fully hands on and provided time to speak to all offering advice and guidance.

During the camp Maddie, with some other top level goalkeepers, provided a masterclass session coached by one of the world’s best goalkeeping coaches John Hurst (coach to Maddie and GB when they won gold at Rio and bronze in London). For the girls to see at such close quarters how good Maddie was with her speed and agility, was awe inspiring for them.

Lucy started at Pelicans aged 7 and has played for the club’s Girls U10s, U12s, Development and U14s teams. She was ever present this season with the U14s as they won the England Hockey East Tier 2 Championship.

She moved up into the Ladies 3rd team last season and hopes to go further with the club. Lucy also is a member of the Norfolk Academy U14s squad.

Mollie only joined Pelicans at the start of last season but her progress has been excellent. She made an impact by helping the Ladies 2nds win promotion in her first full season.

Their day was complete when Maddie had a photograph with them and autographed their goalkeeping kit.

Pelicans hope that both girls will continue their achievements and progress with the club next season.