ALAN Muller, Headteacher at Holsworthy Primary School, has just returned from Amsterdam where he was representing the England Grand Masters (Over 60s) in the European Championships for this age group. Alan, who nowadays plays his club hockey for Bude Hockey Club, was appointed vice-captain of the team in his first year in this age group.

England defeated Germany, Scotland and Wales in their qualifying matches and faced Holland in the final, hoping to avenge a narrow defeat in the previous European Championships. England fought back from 2-0 down to draw 2-2 and then won on penalty strokes.

Masters hockey is thriving and there is a large number of players from all over the world still competing in international matches and tournaments. England's next big tournament is the World Cup which is taking place in Capetown, South Africa, in September 2010. England are the current holders, having won in Hong Kong last October and will be keen to retain their title.

Alan continues to run the Junior Hockey Club at Bude which is producing many good players. The training sessions run on Sunday mornings on the pitch at Budehaven Community School. The first session from 10.00 to 11.00 is for primary age pupils and the second session from 11.00 to 12.00 is for pupils in Years 7, 8, 9 and 10. Alan can be contacted on 01288 359607 for further details. The first sessions on the new pitch at Budehaven are scheduled to start on Sunday September 13.