Special Report: SVHC Goalkeepers

Every week, there’s always that one player who turns up early, lugging what feels like half a ton of equipment.

That player is the goalkeeper — the last line of defence.

A goalkeeper’s game begins long before the first whistle, with a 10/15 -minute ritual of strapping on pads piece by piece, like a modern-day medieval knight preparing for battle. Once fully armoured, they take their place between the posts, while outfield players decide where to test their resolve.

From the first pushback, the goalkeeper becomes a constant voice at the back — organising, directing, and keeping the team shape intact to repel the opposition’s attacks. But when those attacks break through, everything comes down to a split-second decision.

Do they charge?

Do they block?

Do they trust their instincts?

It takes real courage to be a goalkeeper — standing firm as a hockey ball hurtles toward you at speeds of up to 99 mph, and still choosing to put your body on the line. The bruises they carry are worn like badges of honour, each one a story: “That one didn’t go in.”

At SVHC, we’re proud to have a dedicated group of goalkeepers who embody this bravery week in, week out:

Stewart Young (1s), Andrew Hornsey (2s), Ross MacKay (3s), David Turner (4s) and Lee Croucher — players who have represented the club for many seasons, turning up rain or shine.

And the future looks just as strong, with a new generation of young goalkeepers coming through the ranks, ready to follow in their footsteps.