Durham University Women’s Hockey Club (DUHC) first team promoted to the England hockey premier division for the first time in club history.
On Saturday, March 29, 2025, Durham University Hockey Club secured a historic promotion to the Premier Division after a thrilling 4-3 away victory over Gloucester City, edging out Beeston for the coveted spot. Under the leadership of head coach Poppy Martin, who joined the club in September 2024, the team has achieved a remarkable milestone in its history.
“I feel so privileged to work with such an incredible group of young women this year, who has shown so much resilience, togetherness and commitment through an incredibly long season. The League title would not have been possible without their maturity and belief in each other, which shone through in our toughest games and highest-pressure moments. The future is hugely exciting for this group and the club as we begin our preparations for next season in the premier league.”
“This year has been extremely special for the W1s. To captain a squad so diligent and relentless has truly been an honor. Whilst promotion to the Premier Division itself has been the perfect end to a brilliant season, the journey the team has taken over the last year has been just as special. For the team, this promotion represents all the hard work and long hours that the girls have dedicated both on and off the pitch. Everyone worked tirelessly to ensure that physically and mentally we put ourselves in the best position for each game. Our momentum throughout the season has been driven by many leaders within the team, as well as our coach Poppy, who, within a year, has been an inspiration and ingrained our team values, which ultimately made us the team we are. I would also like to mention that this promotion could only be possible because of the support of numerous alumni, friends, family and others, who have created the supportive Durham hockey community there still is today. As a team, we don’t underestimate the challenge that next year brings, but we are super excited. This promotion means the world to the team and will be an unforgettable memory for all of us in years to come. “
Despite producing Olympic-level athletes such as Fiona Crackles and Tess Howard, DUHC’s women’s side had never before reached the top tier of English hockey—until now.
The team’s success this season has been nothing short of extraordinary, winning 17 out of 18 games, keeping 11 clean sheets, and conceding only 13 goals. Gareth Weaver-Tyler, Deputy Head of Sport and Team Durham Hockey Program Manager, credited the achievement to the squad’s experience and development, stating, “This was certainly down to having an experienced squad who had progressed through a three-year cycle, learning from the ups and downs of previous seasons.” The blend of this seasoned squad and the expertise of first-year head coach Poppy Martin enabled the team to perform under sustained pressure.
This accomplishment is a testament to the club’s enduring legacy, driven by the dedication of its current players, the commitment of its up-and-coming U18 and U21 international talent, including from England, Wales, and Scotland and the unwavering support of its invested alumni network. This triumph is not just about this season’s success—it reflects the caliber of DUHC, its athletes, and its staff over the years.
Congratulations to the team on this historic promotion! We do not doubt that they will continue to achieve great success in the Premier Division next season.
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