The Watsonian Hockey Club is delighted to announce the appointment of Keith Smith as Head of Youth Development, with immediate effect. Keith will take on this new role in addition to his current position as Head Coach for Watsonians Ladies 1s, as they look forward to another season in National Division 1.

This new role will involve working with the Head Coaches to set the coaching programme for the club’s 500 youth players and oversee their development across all age groups. Keith will also support the Club’s youth coaches and volunteers, providing advice and guidance and helping them to attain their coaching badges.

Keith has extensive coaching experience, having previously been part of the coaching teams for Scotland U18 Girls and U21 Women, and East and North District U18 Boys. He is currently Scottish Hockey Performance Coach for East Boys & Girls U16/U18 and Scotland U18 Boys Assistant Coach, and has a UKCC Level 2 award. He has also been responsible for devising and delivering the hockey curriculum at George Heriot’s School over the last 3 years.

Richard Gray, Club President commented, “Keith has been a valuable member of the club for some time and I'm delighted that he has agreed to add this role to his already impressive resume. WHC have always had a strong commitment to youth development and we recently added a Colts XI to our Men's line up. With this appointment, funded by the Club, I know I can look forward to seeing our hugely talented youth players lining up as part of all nine of the club's senior teams!"

George Thornton, Youth Convenor added, “This exciting new role will further strengthen our youth coaching programme and will benefit all our youth players and coaches. Keith will help our young players develop at a pace that suits them, achieve their ambitions and most importantly enjoy their hockey.”