London, UK – 12 May 2025 – Grays Hockey, the iconic brand known globally for its excellence in hockey equipment and innovation, is proud to announce a new flagship club partnership with Wapping Hockey Club, one of London’s most inclusive and community-focused hockey clubs.
This exciting collaboration is about more than performance on the pitch – it’s about growing the game of hockey from the grassroots up. Wapping HC, based in East London, has established itself as a powerhouse of community engagement, with a long-standing commitment to making hockey accessible for everyone, regardless of background or financial means.
A Shared Vision for Accessible Hockey
As part of this new partnership, Grays will provide Wapping HC with top-tier kit and support as the club continues to break down barriers to entry in the sport. Starting next season, and thanks to some incredible work by the club’s Sponsorship Secretaries, Wapping will be offering their two junior sessions in Tower Hamlets and a brand-new session in Newham, all completely free for young people aged 6-18. It’s a major step forward in making hockey more accessible to the next generation across East London!
Wapping has offered affordable junior hockey since 2016, keeping playing costs low and providing free sticks and equipment. But going fully free marks a bold, inclusive new chapter.
In addition to junior development, the club continues to run its year-round, free adult Back 2 Hockey sessions at the John Orwell Centre in Wapping, providing a supportive entry point for those who are new to hockey or returning after time away. Sticks and training equipment are provided, and there are zero costs involved, a rare find in London’s sporting landscape.
The club also runs a City and Wharf corporate summer league, the proceeds for which fund its Back 2 Hockey programme ensuring it remains free and accessible to all, and participates in a number of summer leagues across London to keep players engaged year-round.
Championing Diversity & Representation
Wapping fields a vast array of teams, including two masters teams, two mixed teams, and numerous senior and junior squads.
From next season Wapping will have the same number of male and female teams, and the club proudly represents players from across the globe, a wide range of ethnic and socioeconomic backgrounds, and from across the LGBTQ+ community. Wapping is an active champion of LGBTQ+ initiatives such as the London Royals’ Trans Sports Day and Pride Tournament, and is vocal on social media in its support for underrepresented communities.
From free team shirts for all members to bursaries and low-income memberships, Wapping’s approach to inclusivity is comprehensive and unwavering.
Supporting the Local Community
Wapping HC is deeply embedded in East London life, with extensive outreach programmes running in schools across Newham, Tower Hamlets, Southwark and Hackney. The club supports a number of initiatives including Raising Her Game, In2 Hockey and delivers “Intro to Hockey” sessions at local community events and festivals.
Behind the scenes, the club’s volunteer-powered sponsorship team works tirelessly to secure funding and grants to ensure no one is left on the sidelines.
A Club on the Rise
While making headlines for its community work, Wapping has also had a standout season on the pitch. The Women’s 1st XI made club history by competing in the National League for the first time, finishing mid-table in a strong debut season. The club also celebrated three senior league titles, including from their talented junior boys’ development team, an additional two promotions and their U14 boys took home the Tier 3 London League cup. The club also started indoor training and games for its juniors thanks to Head Coach, Matt Bowen.
With two official clubhouses (and two unofficial ones!) Wapping is known for being one of the most social and welcoming clubs in London. From fitness events to club socials, there’s always something happening, and everyone’s invited.
“Wapping HC perfectly represents everything Grays stands for – passion for the game, commitment to community, and breaking down barriers. Their tireless work in making hockey truly accessible is inspiring, and we’re proud to stand alongside them as their official partner.”
Sarah Robertson, Head of Women’s Sport & Hockey Business Lead, Grays Hockey
Helen Rogers, Chair of Wapping HC, added:
“This partnership with Grays Hockey is a monumental moment for us. With their support, we can continue to push boundaries, provide hockey to even more people, and ensure that Wapping is a place where everyone feels they belong – on and off the pitch.”
To learn more, visit Wapping Hockey Club’s website or follow them on Instagram. Recruitment for the 2025/26 season is now open. Don’t miss your chance to be part of one of the UK’s most vibrant and welcoming hockey communities.
