The Countess of Wessex and Lady Louise meet England Hockey

The Countess of Wessex alongside her daughter Lady Louise visited England Hockey to show their support and learn about preparations for the upcoming Olympic Games. Both the men's and women's teams are based at The National Sports Centres in Bisham Abbey, Berkshire. 

The Countess is a big fan of the sport and has supported England Hockey in her position as Patron, since 2006.

Lady Louise got the opportunity to practice her hitting and passing skills with a member of the women's team. Later she watched as the ladies competed against each other in a training match.

The time difference and climate changes in Tokyo means that additional preparations are being made to ensure the athletes have the best chance of success at The Games and return home with medals! The Countess learnt about a new pitch surface the teams are using and the use of heat chambers to help acclimatisation.