St Albans Hockey Club head coach Andy Halliday believes the future is very bright for the Tangerines.

The former Great Britain international and current England Indoor hockey coach is in his first full season in the dugout, after over two decades as a player, with his side sitting in fifth position in the East Men’s top league.

The former Policeman, who continues to coach at both international and grass roots level, is confident that his beloved St Albans are going places but it won’t happen overnight.

“The important thing is that we have the right support structure and framework so the players can thrive,” said Halliday.

“We have got to be realistic with our aspirations. It might take longer than we originally thought.

“We have such a good thing going here. The support from everyone around the club, we really are one big happy family. We have some good youngsters and we are definitely making progress.”

This support structure and framework appears to be in place as St Albans prepare to make an assault on the National League.

“Andy McCann (Welsh rugby psychologist) came up and spoke to the group. We have a full time sports therapist, a diet and nutrition expert, a strength and conditioning coach so we have a great setup here,” he said.

“The aim is to have a sustainable National League Club, with an eye looking to get promotion into the premier league but it is a long term project.”

Halliday will be sharing his expertise at on Monday November 17th (7.30pm) at Oaklands College (AL4 0JA) to discuss coaching development for both the indoor and outdoor game as well as a Q&A session.