David Knapp announces his retirement

Former Welsh international David Knapp has announced his retirement from hockey, some 26 years after he first appeared for the OCHC.

"I can confirm that I am not playing this season, merely coaching," he said. "No cheap goals for lower sides as I do not intend to play at all!"

Knapp rejoined the OCHC in 1995 after a glittering (?) career which saw him play for Guildford and Hounslow as well as Wales and as a player and coach was instrumental in the expansion of the club. His commitment and enthusiasm were legendary and he expected, and usually got, the same dedication from his side.

Off the pitch he was one of the old school who believed that you played hard and then partied even harder. His egg-eating snake routine is revered throughout the land, and his impression of a moth isn't far behind.

1st XI captain Will Stephens, who with Knapp has been an ever-present in the side since 1995, paid tribute to his colleague. "I think he can still offer something to the side, even if it is only oranges at half time."

But Knapp was upbeat about the side's prospects this year. "This coming season will be a tough one. Not only is the league far stronger than in recent years but the loss of key players is an added problem.

"In essence the 3 players who have left for various reasons (Andy Howell, Andy Duff and James Relph) had made their position clear by Christmas last year. James Myers who has played for Guildford, Beeston and Indian Gymkhana will replace Howell and is a goalkeeper of vast experience and comes to us having played in the National League since inception. The squad however has the required determination and character to make the season enjoyable notwithstanding it being hard."