In May 1986, a new chapter in Ipswich hockey began! Following the closure of Ipswich YMCA Hockey Club's original grounds, Ian Reed rallied the players to form a fresh men’s social hockey club. What started as an idea quickly grew, with nearly all the YMCA HC men's members jumping on board to retaining their 4-team structure and the league fixtures. The club got an extra boost when Ipswich Borough Council stepped in with a grant, transforming the Ipswich & East Suffolk Cricket Club’s outfield into two grass hockey pitches – complete with a clubhouse and plenty of parking. Meanwhile, the seperate YMCA HC women’s teams went on to form Orwell LHC. By 1989, half of them had joined IES to kickstart a new women’s section, launching with two teams.

Fast forward to today, and pioneers like John Bentley, Chris Hatch, John Oakley, and Jerry Hindle are still remain active within IES in 2024! We’re also in touch with around 10 of the original 1986 members who remain in the Ipswich area, keeping the club’s early spirit alive.

Attached below is our detailed history of how our club has evolved throughout our history to become the life of our community in Ipswich and East Suffolk.