John Land

John Land studied metallurgy at Nottingham University. Between 1959-61 he was a member of their hockey team that enjoyed the most successful period in their history, winning the UAU (University Athletic Union) title three years in succession. That was the start of a long and successful career for Land,

After moving south, Land played for the Richmond club, and also won international honours with England and Great Britain, representing the latter at the 1964 Tokyo Olympics. After many years away from the sport, Land re-discovered it in his 60s when he started playing again. He helped promote the sport for over-60s, -65s, -70s, and in 2013 he played in the inaugural Vintage Grand Masters for over-75s in the Netherlands. He scored one goal in England’s win. Because of his involvement with seniors hockey, he played in, and promoted, Senior Grand Masters and Great Grand Masters tournaments worldwide

Land moved back to his native north-east of England and was appointed chairman of his local hockey club in Sunderland. He was also a one-time president of the North Hockey Association, and played a key role in developing hockey at all levels in the North. His two sons, Keith and Nigel were also leading hockey players.