Tremendous win for Stratford hockey | Taranaki Sport | Surfing, Rugby, Soccer, Football, Cricket in Taranaki

THE STRATFORD Hockey Club had outstanding success last weekend, winning the Taranaki Men's Hockey A Team Championships for the 20th consecutive year and making New Zealand history in the process.

After extensive googling the Stratford Press was unable to find another sporting team that has won their regional championships 20 years straight.

The men's team played the finals at the Stratford Hockey Turf at 2.30pm on Saturday, August 9, against Te Kiri.

The teams played a well-fought match with Stratford being the eventual winners with the final score 1-0.

The team is coached by Daryl Edgecombe and captained by John Neild.

Stratford Hockey Club president/manager John Sandford said the game was pure history.

"It was an awesome feat. What other team can win the top regional title 20 years in a row," said John

John said it was fantastic to see three Stratford teams in the top four. The men's Broadway team placed fourth and the women's team came a close second.

"We are a very strong family club with great family support. The club has a good heart and its' been a real achievement. Watching the emotion on the players face after the final whistle went was something I will remember for a long time."

The team and club celebrated the win with a social gathering at Shaun Darths'.

The team is made up of young and old players, which makes the team unique as it helps shape future stars.

Paul Williams is the longest playing member, having been part of every championship game.

After the weekends win Warren Edgecombe retired from the sport.

The Stratford Women's Team also played in the finals on Saturday, but lost the game 3-1 to Yarrows Masters.