Accessible Hockey at Bristol Flyerz

Flyerz Hockey is the name widely associated with grassroots disability inclusive hockey in England. Flyerz Clubs are friendly and inclusive, welcoming disabled and non-disabled people of all ages and abilities as well as their families.

“I am happy when I am at training. Having fun with new friends. I like hitting the hockey ball and playing all the fun games.”  Participant

After initial support from the charity Access Sport, Old Bristolian’s Hockey Club have embedded Flyerz sessions into their Club offering. They provide fortnightly sessions led by volunteers from across the Club. Current participants range from 9 -25 years who have a mix of autism, ADHD, sight loss, physical impairments and learning disabilities, but anyone is welcome to come along and give it a go.

“It is a great way for my daughter to learn in a safe environment. Flyerz have given her confidence in sport and helped her make new friends. The coaches provide excellent support, instruction and encouragement to get the best from her and her peers.”

The volunteers aim to create a fun and relaxed atmosphere where players can develop at a level that suits them, ensuring that all needs are met and everyone is having a good time. In doing so, they have a great time too!

“I’ve had so much fun helping out at flyerz sessions! It is amazing to work together with everyone to help spread our love of hockey. It’s a brilliant way to help less able people to join in with sports and at its core, it’s a friendly community who all have lots of fun together!”  Volunteer

After subsidising OB’s Flyerz kit for the players, the Club is looking into options to further embed Flyerz players into the Club. We would love to host sessions at our own Stirratt pitch, but we haven’t got accessible toilets arranged…..yet.

If you’d like to get involved with a Bristol Flyerz session, either as a participant or volunteer, then please contact lizzie.edgecombe@accesssport.org.uk

Or if you’d like to introduce Flyerz to your club then contact Access Sport who can support you at  flyerz@accesssport.org.uk