Roger Self Resigns from GB Board

The Board of Great Britain Hockey Limited has reluctantly accepted the resignation and retirement of its President, Roger Self on the grounds of ill-health.  Bryn Williams, one of the Independent Directors on the Board, will continue in the role of Acting President until a replacement is appointed early next year.

Roger’s involvement with GB spanned 30 years as a Coach and Manger and, most recently, President.  He managed and coached the men’s teams between 1978 and 1988, leading GB to a bronze medal in Los Angeles in 1984 and gold in Seoul, four years later.

In 2004 he was appointed President and led the Board in developing the Framework Agreement between the Home Countries which provided not only clarity on GB Performance and Business matters but ensured openness and transparency in the selection of the athletes for GB.  The Agreement ensured that GB Primacy was one of the principal objectives of all three countries.

“Roger made a unique contribution to GB hockey as Coach, Manager and President”, said Acting President, Bryn Williams.  “His single-mindedness and vision are one of the reasons why GB is in the best position since the early 1990’s to achieve Olympic success.”

Sue Campbell Chair of UK Sport said “Roger will be sorely missed, his passion and commitment for the game have been an inspiration”.

Simon Clegg, Chief Executive of the British Olympic Association said “I have known Roger since the 1988 Seoul success and know the massive contribution he has made to the sport. I wish him a full recovery.”

Mr Williams stressed that Roger’s leadership leaves a clear and progressive direction for GB hockey in preparation for both the Beijing and London Olympics.

“The Framework Agreement that Roger helped produce copes with changes like this and ensures continuity with no disruption to the performance or governance side” said Mr Williams.  “The process of advertising for and recruiting a new President will start immediately”.