The story of the Ballard Beavers is one of passion, perseverance, and camaraderie. Our humble beginnings trace back to the days of grass-based hockey, where unpredictable bounces and eye-hand coordination tests were the order of the day. Everything changed in November 2010 with the inauguration of the Ballard School astroturf pitch, a significant milestone that set the stage for the club's evolution.

The vision of our headmaster, Alastair Reid, was instrumental in shaping the club's trajectory. It was his enthusiasm that led to the first-ever tournament, bringing together pupils, staff, and parents. This gathering of hockey enthusiasts marked the birth of the Ballard Beavers.

In the early days, many Beavers were stepping onto the field for the first time, with some being complete novices. Our growth and development owe much to the invaluable coaching from alumni like Todd Clark and others. There were times when gathering enough players for a Saturday match seemed like a distant dream, with the Astro often looking quite empty.

But as word spread about our spirited team, the Beavers began to attract more members, enhancing both our numbers and skills. Soon, we were competing against local schools and club sides, including teams from New Forest and Bournemouth Hockey Clubs. Some players from these clubs, drawn by our welcoming and relaxed environment, even joined our ranks, enriching our team with their expertise.

From a team initially made up of parents and a few staff members, the Beavers have grown into a diverse group, including past parents, alumni, and new members who have significantly elevated our game. Gone are the days when we hoped to keep the scoreline in single digits. Today, we stand as a formidable team, giving local competitors a run for their money. Our successful tours to places like Devon, Yorkshire, and Jersey are a testament not just to our sporting prowess but also to the unforgettable memories we've created off the field.