The David Yule Hockey Pitch

The David Yule Hockey Pitch: Celebrating 55 Years Of Service To Stockton Hockey Club

Stockton Hockey Club is proud to name our home pitch the David Yule Hockey Pitch, recognising one of the most significant contributions to the club in its history. 

For over half a century, Dave has been at the heart of Stockton Hockey Club — as a player, captain, umpire, committee member, treasurer, organiser, mentor and one of the people who has helped shape the club we have today.

Dave's hockey journey began long before his first appearance for Stockton. After representing at schoolboy level and playing for Stockton & Billingham Technical College in 1966, he continued playing during his time at university before making his first appearance for Stockton on 23rd January 1971 in a 1-1 draw against the Student Teachers at Middleton St George.

It was clear from the beginning that Dave would become a major figure within the club. By the 1972/73 season he was vice-captain of the Men's 1st XI, before taking over as captain the following year. In the 1978/79 season, Dave helped lead Stockton to the D&N League title while also serving as Match Secretary.

During this period, Dave also represented Durham County, playing against Durham University and Lincolnshire in 1972.

More Than A Player

Dave's contribution to Stockton has always extended far beyond playing.

After returning to the club in 1984/85, he became involved once again with the 1st XI and continued his commitment to club development. He served on the committee, supported club events and helped guide Stockton through periods of change.

He was instrumental during the club's transition to a new playing strip in the early 1990s, helping organise the funding required through changes to subscriptions. He also represented Stockton on the SCC committee and helped organise events, including the club's Christmas raffles.

In 1999, during a challenging period for the club, Dave became part of a leadership team alongside Terry Gallagher and Harvey, helping keep Stockton moving forward. Since then, his role as club treasurer has become one of the longest-standing commitments in Stockton's history.

The Person Behind The Scenes

Much of Dave's work happens away from the spotlight.

For many years he has managed the relationship with Egglescliffe School, helping secure the facilities that allow hundreds of Stockton players to train and compete every season.

He organises pitch bookings, ensures teams have the equipment they need, works closely with kit suppliers and helps make sure every season starts smoothly.

He has also played a major role in umpiring and player development. During Stockton's strong representation within the Durham County Umpires Association, Dave contributed as an umpire and helped support the growth of officials within the club.

His involvement with Durham County has continued through organising competitions, supporting talent pathways and helping young players across the region showcase their ability.

A Lifetime Of Recognition

Dave's commitment has been recognised many times throughout his Stockton career.

He received the Golden Jubilee Trophy in recognition of continuing to play beyond the age of 50, and he has been awarded the prestigious Arthur Austin Trophy for long and conspicuous service to the club on three occasions, in 1980, 2012 and 2018.

Despite his reluctance to accept personal recognition, Dave's contribution has been impossible to overlook.

A Fitting Tribute

The renaming of the pitch as The David Yule Hockey Pitch is a celebration of everything Dave represents about Stockton Hockey Club.

His loyalty, generosity, knowledge and commitment have helped generations of players enjoy hockey and have played a huge part in building the club we are proud of today.

From captaining the Men's 1st XI to ensuring today's players have somewhere to play, Dave has been a constant presence throughout Stockton's journey.

Everyone at Stockton Hockey Club would like to thank Dave for 55 incredible years of service.

A truly deserved honour.