Worthing Hockey Club is run by a large team of volunteers. We would like to introduce you to our committee starting with Mens Club Captain John Massie Jnr and Ladies Club Captain Michelle Payne (aka Bob).
John Massie Jnr
Men’s Club Captain, John Massie Jnr, has recently represented the club with great distinction at the England O50’s trials.
Unfortunately, ‘Junior’ narrowly missed out on selection to the final squad, which reads as a who’s who of 1990’s National League legends!
‘Junior’ was introduced to hockey by his father, John Massie Snr, himself a player of some distinction. They arrived at Worthing Hockey Club in the early 1980’s after a family move from Maidstone. Junior was part of the WHC mini hockey set up, on grass, including a number of other youngsters with fathers within the senior teams…Lock, Collins, Edmondson & Neil-Smith. Some of those went on to be decent players!
Johnnie quickly moved through the teams as a young player, from 5’s, to 3’s and eventually into his debut for the 1st XI in the late 80’s. From there he has gone on to be the 1st XI’s record appearance holder. He is the only player in the clubs history to have represented the 1st XI in five separate decades! An incredible stat brought about when he was called up to a game in 2020 and despite being in his late 40’s turned in his usual authoritative display.
He is the current South East O50 captain, midfield dynamo for WHC O50’s and part time 2nd XI player. An incredible amount of service to our great club, we salute you Junior and hope to see you at the England O60’s trials in a few years’ time!
And one of the nicest people you will meet. Legend.
Michelle Payne (aka Bob)
Michelle’s second reign as Ladies Club Captain.
Michelle grew up in a very sporty family with a love of badminton, cricket & hockey.
Michelle began playing hockey at college joining the local team playing mixed and ladies’ hockey for the University of Loughborough.
After joining Penguin Hockey Club with her sister Julie, the pair moved to Worthing Hockey Club.
Michelle’s Love of hockey saw her touring all over the country and overseas.
Her loyalty and commitment to Worthing Hockey Club means she quickly became involved in roles throughout the club.
We thank her for all the hard work, time, and effort she continues to put into our club.
