Stepps Hockey Club, one of the oldest hockey clubs in Scotand, was formed on 15 April 1913 following a meeting of eight local worthies in the Union Public Hall, Stepps. The first match was played on 29 April in the same year against Babcock & Wilcox.
The Club survived two World Wars and produced three internationalists in the 1930s. Further players were capped after the Second World War, the outstanding one being without doubt George B Sime who represented Great Britain in the 1948 Olympics.
One must not forget the legendary goalkeeper, George M Black, who amassed 48 caps (plus for GB against India in 1964). George was Scottish Hockey’s oldest member and was well known to many in hockey – he represented Scotland on 48 occasions and Great Britain three times; he was a non-travelling reserve for the 1964 Olympics; and he has travelled the world playing hockey.
George was a goalkeeper for Stepps since he was 17 years old, and still played a few years before his passing in 2022. He started out initially to play with some friends and quickly fell in love with the game. George’s dedication to Stepps, and to hockey, saw him part of the club long enough to celebrate the clubs’ 50th, 75th and Centenary celebrations.
His time at Stepps saw George perform many roles for the club: Secretary 1950/51 and 1952/53; President 1964/65 & 1965/66; and Captain 1962/63, 1963/64 and 1964/65. He was also the club’s Hon. President.
In the 1980/81 season George was awarded the Robert Thistle Trophy for distinguished services to hockey; an annual award by the National Playing Fields Association.
George was also a founder member and first President of the Scottish Veterans LX Hockey Club who he represented in various age categories.
George Black, Stepps Hockey Club Legend
No fewer than six members have received recognition as
international umpires with pride of place going to Bryce L Thomson
who officiated at the Olympic Games in Tokyo in 1964.
The Club has also contributed the admin side of the game both at
district and national level with three members having held the
position of President (of SHA/SHU).
In 2012 Stepps Ladies in its current form was launched, starting with one team in the West District Ladies Division 4. Over the years, Stepps ladies has grown, now with two teams.
Stepps Ladies 2012
Unfortunately in season 2024/25 for the first time in 111 years, Stepps did not field a mens’ team. Hopefully we can update this page soon when our gent’s section is back!