Guyana head to England with eyes on more World Masters Hockey Indoor glory

Guyana’s master hockey stars are heading to England this week, as genuine podium contenders for the 2026 World Masters Hockey (WMH) Indoor World Cup.

Two years ago, the South American nation arrived at its debut tournament in the Over-45 Men’s division with “little to no expectations.”

They left as silver medalists, pushing hosts England to the absolute limit in a 5-4 thriller that echoed around the veteran hockey world.

When the tournament flickers into life at the David Ross Sports Village in Nottingham on March 26, Guyana will have quadrupled their presence, fielding teams in the Men’s Over-40, Over-50, and Over-55 categories, alongside a historic first appearance for the Women’s Over -40 side.

Guyana Hockey Board (GHB) President Philip Fernandes admits that the element of surprise—their greatest weapon in 2024—has likely evaporated.

“The last time we were unknown, and teams were not really looking out for us to cause any damage,” Fernandes said. “This time, they will be looking for Guyana.”

Fernandes has high hopes for the Men’s Over-40 group, which he believes possesses the same blistering pace that dismantled European defences two years ago. While he describes the Over-55S as an “unknown quantity,” he points to the “intelligence and maturity” of the O50S as a key factor in their tactical arsenal.

Perhaps the most significant victory for Guyanese hockey is the inclusion of the Women’s Over-40 squad.

Composed of a core group that has represented the nation since the mid-2000s, the team serves as a bridge between the sport’s past and its competitive future.

Their journey to Nottingham has been a true community effort, fueled by fundraisers and major backing from sponsors like Cevons Waste Management and Guinness.

The 2024 silver medal was achieved despite limited access to training facilities. This time around, the preparation has been “thorough and strategic.”

Upgraded facilities at home have allowed for realistic practice matches, meaning the teams arriving in the East Midlands are arguably the best-prepared units Guyana has ever sent abroad.

With the temperature in Nottingham expected to be a far cry from the Caribbean heat, the teams have also been kitted out with winter jackets provided by Rockhard Cement.

The tournament runs from March 26 to 31, featuring the world’s best veterans. (Modified Press Release) 

 

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