
Reigate Priory Hockey Club (RPHC) has achieved a historic milestone, marking 2024- 2025 as a landmark season for both the club and the borough of Reigate and Banstead. Following a dedicated four-year development cycle—climbing from 7th to 1st place—the Men’s 1st XI secured the South East Division 1 West title. This victory earned them promotion to the South East League Premier Division, making them the first club in the borough to reach this prestigious level.
As the Premier Division feeds directly into the National Conference, RPHC is firmly putting local hockey on the map across Surrey, Sussex, and Kent. The team has transitioned seamlessly into this higher tier under the guidance of prominent UK coach and EVO Hockey co-founder, Chris Bowen. At the 2025/26 mid-season point, the Men's 1XI sit comfortably in 7th place, well clear of the relegation zone.
The squad’s success is a testament to the club’s thriving youth system:
Junior Integration: The promoted squad featured three current junior players.
Homegrown Talent: Nine squad members developed through the RPHC junior ranks.
Local Roots: The majority of the team are current borough residents, while others remain committed to the club despite moving away for work or study.
Beyond performance, the team exemplifies sportsmanship. They finished the 2024/25 season with the best disciplinary record in the league and continue to be among the league leaders for fair play this season. This blend of elite performance, local development, and impeccable conduct makes the Men’s 1st XI a premier representative of Reigate and Banstead sports.
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