Well it has indeed been a busy summer for us!   For the first time in years we've had a series of Home Internationals which has been great for us as players and for our hockey supporters round the country.

First up of course we had the series against Australia which proved to be pretty tough and we lost both matches, but was a good start given they are one of the world's top sides and are always a very tough proposition.

Then came Pakistan in Cannock, Birmingham which was again a challenge.   Losing this 3 match series 2-0 was disappointing given our recent record against Pakistan, but at the time we were training very hard, coming to terms with our sports new rules and experimenting with new players.

All that had gone before seemed to stand us in good stead though as next up was the world number 3 team Holland.   We beat the Dutch 3-2 in a great test match at Bisham Abbey.   From there we went straight to Birmingham for a 3 game series against India which we managed to win too, coming out on top 2-1.

So a successful build up to the summer's big tounament was complete.   Selection was next and I managed to make the squad for the upcoming European Championships in Amsterdam.   In fact all those who were in the Beijing squad last year and who haven't retired have made the team and so we have an experienced group.   Throw in 4 new members and the squad has a lovely looking balance and we are excited about the challenges ahead.

We leave for Amsterdam on Tuesday 18th for the Europeans and need a top 4 finish to ensure automatic qualification for next years World Cup....so here we go, and watch this space!