Crostyx recognises that some of our older Junior players may benefit from, and enjoy, the
challenge of training and playing with our Men’s and Ladies’ teams. In line with England Hockey regulations, Junior players must be at least 13 years old to take part in adult matches (and 15 years old for England Hockey League fixtures).

Parents are encouraged to speak with their child’s coach if they believe these opportunities may support their child’s development. This ensures that any progression is appropriate, safe, and in the best interests of the player.

If all parties agree that moving into senior hockey is suitable, the child’s coach will make an initial introduction to the relevant senior team captain. The captain will then liaise directly with the parents and player regarding next steps and the player’s ongoing development pathway.

Parents should be aware that Junior players may be exposed to different physical, social, and competitive aspects of the sport when participating in adult training sessions and matches.

These environments can be positive and developmental, but they do differ from junior hockey.

To support this transition, we require parents of all Junior players wishing to train or play
with adult teams to complete a Junior Player Participation Disclaimer. This ensures that
parents understand the expectations, risks, and safeguarding measures in place.
England Hockey provides comprehensive guidance on Safeguarding and Protecting Young People.

A few relevant points to think about and accept are summarised from the England Hockey
guidance and policies here below:

Communication between the Club and Young People
When communicating with young people it is recommended that Adults and Officers of the Club:

- Contact players only when necessary for Club business
- Parents should be the main contact point, at a minimum copied into written
communication (i.e. letters or emails)
- Speak with a player and their parents if there is a need to communicate information in
relation to playing, training or competition
- Contacting young people by phone, text, email or social networking site should never be undertaken without parental consent.