Uncategorized
EHL: Ansell and Wimbledon Aim to Boost English EHL Success
26
Sep
Sep
Liam Ansell from Wimbledon emphasizes that despite fierce rivalries, the recent successes of nearby clubs Surbiton and Old Georgians have increased aspirations for the EHL in England. Returning to Wimbledon after a season with AH&BC Amsterdam, Ansell is part of a team benefiting from the heightened performance of English clubs, which secured a third-place finish in the EHL.
“We face each other week after week as rivals, but anything that can enhance our league and increase visibility is vital,” he stated. The influx of foreign talent is evident, as players like Sam McCulloch from Hale and Welsh star Fred Newbold from Club an der Alster join the ranks.
Wimbledon has seen some roster changes, with new additions like Scottish international Joe McConnell while losing Ian Sloan, David Condon, and Jack Waller to other clubs. This has resulted in a younger squad, which faced challenges in their opening English league match, losing 5-3 to Holcombe despite leading 2-0. However, Ansell remains optimistic about the team’s progress.
“We’d have liked a few more weeks to gel as a team, but we’re in a relatively good position,” he noted. “We have a few tweaks to make, and we’ll be ready for the EHL!”
Preparation included a high-energy trip to Germany, facing teams like Uhlenhorst Mülheim, Rot-Weiss Köln, and Der Club an der Alster, which Ansell described as crucial for building momentum and competitive spirit.
As a Tokyo Olympian and double Commonwealth medalist, Ansell aims to regain his full potential after a year-long back injury recovery. His experiences in the Dutch Hoofdklasse, where he played for Den Bosch, provided insights into the level of competition needed at home.
“Every match is tough, and you must be on guard; it’s a highly competitive league. I hope we can elevate English hockey,” he expressed. Over the last decade, increased investment in club systems has been beneficial, highlighted by the Old Georgians’ impressive performance last year.
Efforts to engage fans are evident, with clubs like Surbiton and East Grinstead creating vibrant atmospheres through events and fireworks. “We’re all striving for greater visibility, as new spectators really enjoy the game,” Ansell added.
Looking ahead to their EHL match against the Western Wildcats on October 5, Ansell acknowledged the challenge posed by their physical style of play. The team is preparing intensively, aiming to treat the EHL weekend with the professionalism it deserves. “We’re ensuring we’re fully prepared, just as if we were playing in Hamburg two years ago,” he concluded.
