Following the merger of Portsmouth & Southsea, and City of Portsmouth into Portsmouth Hockey Club, it was always going to be important for future stability to bring the whole club together early to allow new clubmates to meet, and get to know each other.

The summer mixer aimed to do just that through social mixed ability hockey, and off field events too, and it certainly delivered.

The early rains and clouds cleared with perfect timing, as the hockey kicked off with half pitch matches between six randomly assigned teams, with no sign of any past rivalries, as good natured, enthusiastic hockey was on display throughout.

There were the inevitable rusty touches, as should be expected at this stage of pre-season, but overall the hockey flowed, smiles were on display, and a real sense of growing camaraderie was present, giving everyone a very positive outlook on the future of Portsmouth Hockey Club.

The feedback was overwhelmingly positive, David Edwards commented: "Thanks to all the organisers & umpires! Was a good run around & good to meet the team". Meanwhile, Jamie Moore was equally pleased with the event: "Great mixer today guys, I thoroughly enjoyed it. Caught up with old friends, made some new friends and now looking forward to a fun ,fruitful season across the whole club in all divisions".

The club would like to thank everyone that made the summer mixer a success today. Not just those that helped organise and run it, but each and every person that turned up and umpired, played, watched, or chatted.