Chairman CJ Neate said it is “fantastic to have a new pair of captains” at Weston Hockey Club

Jack Pitt and Jo Withers have both been chosen to lead the male and female sides respectively.

And Neate said he is hopeful the duo will bring a lot of success to Weston.

“It’s fantastic to have a new pair of captains and a different vision,” he said.

“It goes without saying that we have a massive thank you to Rob and Aimee for their captaincy over the last few years but it’s nice to see a fresh perspective with Jack and Jo at the helm.

“I certainly hope they will and that they have a continued success over the next few seasons.

“It will be good to see our club go from strength to strength and hopefully under these two the results will come. 

“Both teams have recruited well this year so hopefully there will be some good results on the pitch whilst the club grows off the pitch.”

Both teams open their new campaign against Firebrands today (Saturday).

The men are away at their thirds at BGS Sports Grounds in Bristol in their opening game of the Concorde Division One, while the women take on their fourths at 12pm at Priory School in their opening match of West Women's Brunel Division One.

“It’s an interesting proposition to test both sides, Firebrands are a good organised side who will be hard to break down,” said Neate.

“Both their sides will be very experienced so we need to be at our best to secure six points this weekend.”

Pitt has been at the club for roughly 15 years and was captain a few years ago but stepped away and come back in to replace Rob Mount, who is still playing but wanted to step down after a few seasons at the helm.

Pitt can play in midfield and upfront and scored 12 goals in 22 games last season to finish top scorer and says he wants to bring back good times to Weston.

"A few of the boys asked if I would consider doing it again," Pitt said.

"We needed a positive leader on the pitch, I was top goalscorer last season as well so needed someone to lead by example, I train and play hard.

"I’m incredibly pleased to take over the captaincy from club legend Rob Mount. I want to help the club continue to progress back to where we have been in the past."

Withers has been with Weston for the last two campaigns and has taken over captaincy from Amy Grimes.

Withers usually plays her trade as defender, primarily at right back, and says she is excited for the test ahead.

"I am really looking forward to the challenge and feel this season will be a good one with new players joining," she said.

"I have a positive attitude and a great team leader. We are looking for a strong win against Firebrands for a positive start to the season."