Graham pained by loss of chief

ISLAND hockey manager Andy Graham has called on Jason Robilliard to reconsider his resignation as Guernsey Hockey Association president over the furore created by his controversial league plans. Robilliard had wanted to expand the Investec Men's First Division from five teams to up to 13 by combining it with the second division.

However, when the Guernsey Hockey Club that represents the majority of the teams in the island theoretically blocked the proposal, Robilliard felt that he had no alternative but to step down after two years in the role.

It is understood that GHA secretary Emma Atkinson and treasurer Nathan Hodder are also looking to resign.

'He's been doing an absolutely fantastic job and people don't realise that and whoever does take over will realise that.

'I'd like to think people might be able to change his mind, but I don't think he will. He is one of my best friends and I don't think he will change his mind.'

Graham says the whole issue could have been avoided if there had been better lines of dialogue between the GHA committee and the clubs.

Graham is of the view that clubs are going to suggest at the forthcoming EGM having six teams in the first division and eight or nine in the second.

The new first division would be made up of two teams from champions Colombians along with one apiece from Yobbos, Unwantables, Elizabeth College and an outfit mainly of players from Beavers, a club that is reported to be folding.

Independents could also be involved but it is believed that they will choose to stay in the second division.