The Failand-based Firebrands Corporate Hockey League has secured a sponsorship deal with South West-based accountancy company Albert Goodman.

The league, which is based at Firebrands Hockey Club, offers an inclusive environment with six ladies’ teams, five men’s teams, a junior academy, mixed hockey, masters hockey for over 35s, 40s and 50s and indoor hockey.

 Its corporate competition was established to allow people across Bristol and North Somerset to enjoy 11-a-side, mixed, sociable hockey and to promote a sense of camaraderie, health, and wellness in the business community and public sector.

 A wide variety of companies and organisations participate, all from the Bristol area, with matches taking place in a league format alongside an annual seven-a-side tournament which provides team-building and local business networking opportunities.

“Our club has a strong tradition of running and hosting a corporate league which is a mixed hockey league aimed at promoting our sport while offering the business community the chance to play a competitive game in a welcoming and fun environment," chairman Paul Langford said: 

 “One of the most attractive things about hockey is its ability to allow everyone of all ages and abilities to compete equally, on the same pitch. 

 “In fact, Firebrands HC, along with most other hockey clubs, can boast teams featuring, mums, dads and kids. We’ve even had the grandparents playing. 

 “Hockey does bring families, friends and colleagues together, which is why we’re thrilled to have teamed up with Albert Goodman to make the 2023/24 Corporate League possible.”

 The new partnership strengthens accountants Albert Goodman, which have been helping business for more than half a century and has places in Taunton, Yeovil, Weymouth and Weston-super-Mare, commitment to supporting grassroots sport.

“We are all immensely proud to be sponsors of the Firebrands Corporate Hockey League," Albert Goodman Trusts & Estates Manager Julie Harding, who is also the Firebrands Ladies’ Club captain, said.

“It’s personally rewarding for me as a hockey player, but it’s also part of Albert Goodman’s wider commitment to making a positive impact in all the communities where we operate. 

“We strongly believe in the power of teamwork - both in the boardroom and on the sports field - and this sponsorship aligns with our values of community engagement and healthy work-life balance.

“It’s really great to be formally partnering with a league which provides a route for people of all ages to pick up a hockey stick and actively enjoy a brilliant team sport in a competitive but friendly and supportive atmosphere.”