Old Wulfs are a true family club for hockey

Wolverhampton's biggest hockey set-up boasts three generations from two families among their playing ranks.

John Nightingale tops the long serving list having been involved with Wulfs for 55 years.

His son Chris followed his lead and now skippers the club's second team while his two children, Callum and Cassie, have now joined the set up.

John said: "I've been involved with the club for 55 years, I brought my son along with me when he was about 11 and now he's done the same with Callum and Cassie."

Chris added: "Callum wanted to play after watching my games and experiencing the social side of the club.

"I was always going to bring him along when he was old enough, now he's able to play at school and for the county as well as for Old Wulfs."

Sixty-nine-year-old Mac Fullwood's family have also got the hockey bug. His son-in-law Ian Wall (39) plays for Wulfs along with his three sons, Thomas (14), Ben (12) and James (10).

Old Wulfs are hoping the family atmosphere will help swell their playing ranks as they look to build on a successful season that saw their first and fourth teams win promotion.

A series of back-to-hockey sessions proved a hit, with the club forced to extend the Tuesday night sessions at Wolverhampton Grammar School until June 23.

It's an England Hockey initiative aimed at encouraging people who have played hockey in the past at school, college, university or elsewhere to start up again.

Club captain Richard Cartwright said: "We have had an excellent turnout. It's been great to see our back to hockey sessions encourage people to take up hockey again.

"We are a very friendly club, as many families will testify as we have a large number of players spanning generations of grandads, dads and grandchildren who play at different levels.

"It must be a third of our membership that have family in the club. Old Wulfs is the largest men's hockey club in Wolverhampton and we cater for players of all ages and abilities.

"Even if you have never played before but fancy having a go, then you will be most welcome."

Old Wulfs were formed in 1953 and now have around 100 playing members on their books.

They run seven teams on a Saturday – five men's sides competing in the West Midlands League, one non-league outfit and a boys' under-16s.

The club also has indoor, summer league, over-40s and over-50s sides.

Anyone interested in joining the club can find more information at www.oldwulfshc.co.uk or by contacting Richard Cartwright on 07834 073872.