Protest as campaigners call for 2G pitch at Fife school

Parents, pupils, members of the hockey community and local politicians joined the protest, calling for a 2G pitch at the new school that would allow people over S3 to be able to play hockey.

The original plans for the school had a 2G and 3G pitch, however, these plans were changed to have two 3G pitches, with the school having access to the University of St Andrews hockey pitches for nine hours per week.

A petition launched by MSP Willie Rennie calling for a 2G pitch was signed by more than 1300 people, and will be handed over to Fife Council on Friday.

It comes after statistics provided by Active Schools showed more hockey is played at Madras than football or rugby. As well as the hockey being played at the school, there are also three hockey clubs in the town, with around 400 members between the groups.

Former Scotland and GB player Alison Glasse-Davies is among those who have criticised the decision, saying: “We will lose participation in hockey if young players feel they can’t go further. I would never have got to where I did if I hadn’t played hockey at school with Madras FP.”

Gina Logan MBE added: “Hockey players in north east Fife must be given the opportunity to play their sport on a suitable 2G pitch, within the area. Football and rugby can be played on 2G, 3G and grass but hockey at a competitive level needs a 2G pitch.

“Don’t waste the Fife taxpayer’s money by providing another surplus facility when it has been proven that there is great need for a 2G pitch which would be less expensive.”