At just 16 years old, Lower Sixth Former Ollie is already leading from the front after making history as the youngest-ever captain of Bedford Hockey Men’s 1st XI
It is a remarkable milestone for a player still in the early stages of his hockey journey, but one that those who know him best say comes as no surprise. Through hard work, commitment and a willingness to set the standard both on and off the pitch, Ollie has earned the respect of teammates, coaches and club officials alike.
For Ollie himself, the news initially came as a shock. “I was quite surprised as I am quite young,” he said. “But I was really happy because I’d worked hard for it. Going to all the training sessions helped my game and gave me confidence.”
That dedication has been evident throughout his development. Balancing the demands of school life with regular club training and competitive hockey, Ollie has steadily grown into one of the club’s most influential players. Now, despite being younger than many of those he leads, he has been entrusted with one of the most important roles in the team.
For Ollie, captaincy is about much more than wearing an armband. He explained, “I would like to be loud and communicate well, set the standards through my actions and not just my words, and be someone younger people in school can look up to. I’d like to be a role model.”
Those are qualities that have been nurtured during his time at Bedford School, where he credits the support of teachers and coaches with helping him to develop both as a player and as a leader.
In particular, he highlights the influence of Mr Mason, Teacher in the Prep School, who also coaches at Bedford Hockey Club, and Mr Ramage, Bedford School’s Director of Hockey.
Ollie went on to say, “School has helped me grow as a player, gain lots of confidence and develop my leadership skills. It’s also taught me how to help others.”
The close partnership between Bedford School and Bedford Hockey Club continues to provide talented young players with opportunities to train and compete at a high level, and Ollie’s appointment is a powerful example of what can be achieved through that pathway. He is not the only Bedfordian making an impact at senior level. This season, Upper Sixth Formers George, Ben, Freddie and Will, together with Old Bedfordian Charlie Blythman, have all featured for Bedford Men’s 1st XI, while many other Bedford School players are representing the club across its lower teams. Their involvement highlights the strength of the pathway between school and club, providing talented young players with valuable experience in senior hockey.
Bedford Men’s Head Coach Dave Appleton believes Ollie is exactly the right person to lead the team.
“I am delighted that Ollie has agreed to be our captain this year. He has a great attitude, is brilliant with the team and he has really impressed us with his approach and commitment.
He is a fantastic leader and an excellent example of the opportunities the partnership with Bedford School can bring.
All our Bedford School club players are a pleasure to work with. They’ve fitted in really well across all of our sides and we’re especially pleased to have been able to include so many in our 1st team. Keep up the good work boys!”
The season has already begun in positive fashion, with Bedford Men’s team winning both of their opening league fixtures. Their next challenge comes this Saturday against Pelicans, with Ollie hoping to continue an encouraging start both personally and collectively.
While there is plenty of hockey still to be played this season, Ollie’s appointment is already a significant moment in the history of Bedford Hockey Club. Becoming the youngest men’s captain the club has ever had is an accolade few can claim, and one that reflects not only his talent on the pitch but also his character away from it.
As he prepares to lead his team into the season ahead, one thing is certain – Bedford Hockey Club’s youngest-ever captain is ready to make his mark.
