Hockey hopefuls stick out challenge

International sportswomen scaled new heights in Walsall in preparation for the forthcoming Beijing Olympics this summer.

Members of the Great Britain women’s hockey team got to grips with ropes and climbing equipment during a team-bonding exercise.

The squad of 19 visited the Outdoor Activity and Environmental Learning Centre in Aldridge for a fun-filled and relaxing morning.

The centre was officially opened by Princess Anne in January and includes a classroom, changing room and rope adventure course.

Midfielder Jennie Bimson, originally from Kingswinford and who now plays for Leicester, said it was an excellent opportunity for the team to relax ahead of the Olympics.

The 31-year-old said: “It was really enjoyable, although quite scary at times, but was great for team building and just what we needed before going to Beijing.

“It is hard to compare doing these sort of activities to playing hockey. It can be quite nervous playing in front of big crowds but there was real fear on some of the girls’ faces as they are afraid of heights. But everybody was really encouraging.

“We have been training all over the world including Australia, Spain, Holland and Argentina. We spent the last dew days at Cannock Hockey Club and will be going to Beijing on August 2. We have been drawn in a tough group but the aim is to try and get a medal.”

The centre is funded by the lottery through its New Opportunities for PE and Sport programme. It is used by schools and community groups for a range of outdoor activities including mountain biking, orienteering, land yachting and archery.

With classroom and changing facilities the centre has also been used to support environmental projects with the aim of providing on-site teaching and learning.