Wisbech hockey player Jane Peggs retires after 40 years

Published:
11:26 am March 28, 2022

One of Wisbech Town Hockey Club’s oldest players hangs up her stick this summer after more than 40 years on the field.

Described as ‘one in a million’ by her teammates, Jane Peggs celebrated her last game for the club on Saturday March 26 in a 1-1 draw with Cambridge City 3rd XI at Harecroft Road.

Jane made her debut as a teenager in 1979 and spent her first year playing for the club’s 3rd XI.

She quickly moved on to play in the first team, where she spent almost all of her next 41 playing years.

Jane enjoying a retirement cake and gifts from the team.
– Credit: Wisbech Town HC

Jane was a member of the Wisbech Town Ladies 1st team which went unbeaten in the 2010/2011 season and the Wisbech Town Ladies Veterans team reached National Finals day at Lee Valley in 2017.

For Jane, “the time has come”.

She said: “I have no regrets and full of fantastic memories for a lifetime.

“Wisbech Town Cricket and Hockey Club will always hold a very special place for me.”

A real asset to the community, Jane was not just an active player.

She has helped serve as captain on several occasions and has served as president, club, member, and vice president secretary.

Photo of the 2017 Women’s Veterans team that reached the day of the National Finals in Lee Valley (Jane is front row, second from left).
– Credit: Wisbech Town HC

Playing an instrumental role in the development of the club within the local community, Jane helped secure funding for a new clubhouse and artificial turf pitch.

Not stepping away completely, Jane will continue to play a role in the current and future planning of the club.

Hockey club president Natalie Ward said, “I am privileged to have been Jane’s teammate, captain and friend for many years.

“She was hugely influential to myself and many others.

“His drive and determination were evident on and off the pitch.

“And the positive position we find ourselves in as a club today is a testament to his passion and dedication.

“Jane has worked tirelessly to secure generous donations for the club, making it a place the entire community can be exceptionally proud of.

“Current staff at the club and those who will frequent the club in the future will be forever indebted to him.

“She’s one in a million, and while I respect Jane’s decision to step down, it’s been an honor to step onto the court with her on so many occasions.

“I will miss her ‘do or die’ attitude very much, and we are all very grateful that she remains an integral part of the club.”