Sheffield Hockey Club is delighted to announce the appointment of James Ross as Women’s Performance Squad Head Coach. “Rossco” is one of the most experienced coaches in the region, with a coaching career spanning more than 20 years, and his record in performance coaching is up there with the best. CV highlights include, among others, leading Ben Rhydding Ladies into the National League in 2012, BUCS league and cup triumphs with Leeds Beckett University, four years working with the performance squad at Loughborough University, and most recently promotion to National League Division One North with Wakefield Ladies.

Duncan Longson, Head of Performance said: “James is well known to the club, with his association with the club going back to his days as a Hallam student, several decades ago! After a number of attempts to bring Rossco to the club over the years, I am absolutely delighted that we have finally secured his services as Women’s Performance Head Coach. Rossco and I are both aligned on our ambition: to return Sheffield Ladies to the National League at the earliest opportunity. I look forward to working with him to achieve this goal.”

James said: “For the last few years, it has always been my intention to coach closer to home, to allow me a better balance between my family life and the sport of hockey. I’m incredibly thankful to Sheffield HC for allowing me the opportunity to continue the next chapter of my coaching journey working alongside the Ladies Performance group, and I am looking forward to getting started this Summer. Huge thanks must go to Longy, Beavo and Stevie for the ongoing discussions that have taken place to make this happen, and of course Saul who has been a true friend throughout; I cannot wait to help contribute to the progressive plans of the club and support Sheffield HC in achieving their clear objectives.”.