The Sheffield Talent Academy is looking for talented young players aged 14-18 (Y9 to Y13) to join our programme!

Here's how you can be considered:

Open Nominations:

• Players can be nominated by their clubs, schools, or counties during the England Hockey open nomination period from November to May.

When the open nomination window is available this link will take you to the England Hockey website to make your nomination EH Nominations Website

• Open Talent ID Sessions: We will hold Talent ID sessions in early September, January, May and June each TA Cycle. Players nominated through the open process will be invited to attend these sessions.

• Multiple Assessments: You can attend multiple Talent ID sessions throughout the season to account for rapid player development.

• Assessment Phase: Those who perform well in the Talent ID sessions will be nominated to attend the main assessment phase to join our TA Squads for each TA Cycle. Players already in the programme will also be assessed at this time.

For the 2026/27 TA Cycle these final assessments with take place in September 2026 and for the 2027/28 TA Cycle these final assessments will take place in June/July 2027.

Selection Process & Decision-Making:

• We are committed to a fair and transparent selection process.
• Players and Parents can be assured that all assessment and selection decisions made by the Sheffield TA will be carried out in full accordance with England Hockey Selection Guidelines for further details please visit: England Hockey - TA Selection Guidelines
• You should also be aware that all assessment events will include video recording/analysis to support objective assessment and associated moderation processes by the Sheffield TA Coaching Team.

Selection Appeals Process:

Players and Parents are further advised that if they are dissatisfied with any selection decisions made by the Sheffield TA that England Hockey have adopted a formal appeals process for further details please visit: Talent Academy Player Selection Appeals Policy

For Un-nominated Players:

If your coach hasn't nominated you, encourage them to contact us to discuss an assessment.

Beyond Selection:

• Player Tracking: All players attending talent ID sessions will be entered into the England Hockey talent platform.
• Right Athlete, Right Environment (RARE): We are willing to work with your existing teams to ensure your development flourishes in the most suitable environment.
• Playing for Host Club: Being selected for the Sheffield TA does not require you to join or play for our club.

Costs and Contacts:

• Our Talent ID and Assessment events cost £30 per session.
• For the start of the 2026/27 cycle please see the attached document below which outlines the process and assessment dates.
• Contact: For any questions, please contact us Sheffield TA Manager