Ambitious Pelicans have unveiled the stunning signings of two international stars as they look to continue their rise up the leagues.
South African internationals Le-Neal Jackson and Kaylim Bowers will both join the club for the 2025-26 campaign, taking on dual roles as players and coaches in a move that underlines Pelicans’ determination to keep climbing the English hockey ladder.
The arrivals cap an extraordinary journey for the Men’s 1st XI, who in 2023–24 secured promotion back into the prestigious East Premier Division for the first time in nearly two decades.
The achievement left the club bursting with pride, as it placed them just three tiers shy of the very top level of the English game.
Last season brought another stern test.
At Christmas, the men’s 1st XI were riding high in third place, only for injuries to bite and momentum to stall.
But the squad dug deep to secure a hard-fought seventh-place finish – a result that cannot be underestimated in a cut-throat league where four teams are relegated and only two promoted.
Simply holding their ground is, in itself, a victory worth celebrating.
Now, with Jackson and Bowers on board, the club’s ambition burns brighter than ever.
Jackson, 30, is a defender of pedigree and presence.
Born in Queenstown, South Africa, he made his international debut in 2020 and has since collected 34 caps and two goals for his country.
He was part of the squads for the 2022 African Cup of Nations and the 2022 Commonwealth Games in Birmingham, and has competed across the globe in the prestigious FIH Pro League.
A graduate of the University of Johannesburg, his experience is expected to bring a fresh edge to both Pelicans’ men’s and women’s sections.
Bowers, 24, is an equally exciting addition.
A midfielder who has represented Southern Gauteng at inter-provincial level, she has also featured in international training camps and the South Africa Emerging Indoor squad.
Her blend of skill, vision, and leadership is tipped to play a crucial role in driving Pelicans’ Ladies’ 1st XI forward – while inspiring the next generation of club talent.
Despite their success of the past few seasons, Pelicans Hockey Club is not standing still.
Over the summer, committee members, coaches, and players alike have been working tirelessly to strengthen the club across all levels, from juniors just picking up a stick, right through to the senior sides competing at regional level.
Recruitment has been a focus, and new players have already joined the ranks to deepen the pool of talent.
Club chairman Stuart Olley said: “We are passionate about building a stronger Pelicans Hockey Club, one that is open to everyone.
“Whether you’re an under-8 picking up a stick for the first time, a teenager looking to play competitive sport, or an adult who wants to get fit while being part of a social, outdoor team, we have a place for you.
“With Le-Neal and Kaylim joining our coaching team, this is a really exciting chapter for us.”
Pelicans currently field four senior men’s teams, three senior ladies’ teams, plus boys’ and girls’ development squads and a thriving junior section.
For anyone interested in joining, the club welcomes new players at any stage of their hockey journey to be part of a thriving club aiming for National League status.
The club welcomes new members of all ages and abilities.
Those interested can get in touch via the club’s Facebook page or at pelicanshockeyclub.co.uk/contact
Training and matches take place at Alive Lynnsport. Junior sessions start from 9am on Saturdays and are followed by senior games from 11:30am to 4pm.
Come along and see firsthand. Supporters can enjoy bacon rolls and hot drinks from the sidelines.
