Scott Clark Recognised with Unsung Hero Award for Two Decades of Dedication to Inline Hockey in Eastbourne

Scott Clark, co-founder and Chair of Eastbourne Edge Inline Hockey Club, has been honoured with the Unsung Hero award at the Sussex Sport & Physical Activity Awards. 

The award was presented on Thursday, November 28, at 1st Central Sussex Cricket Club in recognition of Scott’s tireless efforts to bring inline hockey to Eastbourne and create a thriving community for players of all ages and abilities.

Scott, who has represented Great Britain at European and World Championships, founded Eastbourne Edge Inline Hockey Club in 2003. 

As a passionate Canadian hockey player, Scott’s love for the sport was the driving force behind introducing inline hockey to a town that was not traditionally known for its hockey culture.

Reflecting on the award, Scott said: “I’m actually quite humbled to be recognised for this, and it’s great for our sport. 

“We’re a minority sport. So the fact that we’ve been recognised against football, swimming and other mainstream sports is amazing. 

“I can’t wait to share this with the kids at the club. As I was getting it, I was thinking, I wish the kids from the club were here to get a picture with them because that’s really why I do what I do.” 

Inline hockey, a version of ice hockey played on inline skates, has grown significantly in Eastbourne thanks to Scott’s leadership and dedication. 

From humble beginnings, the club has now become nationally recognised, producing regional and national players. 

Scott’s personal commitment to every club member is evident in the way he treats everyone like family. 

His approach fosters confidence and provides support, particularly for vulnerable children, including helping with schoolwork when needed.

In addition to coaching the youth teams, Scott plays for and coaches the senior teams, while also handling the behind-the-scenes operations of the club. 

All of this is done while balancing a full-time teaching career and raising two children. 

His dedication to the club extends beyond the rink, with Scott volunteering with Eastbourne Council for four years to run ice hockey sessions and matches at the town’s winter ice rink, giving local children opportunities they may not otherwise have had.

The club has flourished under Scott’s leadership, with numerous community projects, including toy collections and food donations, benefiting from his initiative. 

He has also supported young people working toward their Duke of Edinburgh Award, guiding them through the physical and volunteering sections, and played a pivotal role in introducing inline hockey as a recognised sport within GCSE Physical Education.

Despite facing personal challenges, including his wife’s recent cancer diagnosis, Scott continues to lead the club and support his family with remarkable strength. 

His ability to balance his commitments to the club and his personal life has earned the admiration and respect of everyone around him.

A committee member added: “Eastbourne would not have an inline hockey community without his involvement. Scott is genuinely one of a kind, and this award is a small way for us to say thank you for everything he’s done and continues to do for the sport, and most importantly, for the kids he coaches.”

Scott’s recognition at the Sussex Sport & Physical Activity Awards is a well-deserved tribute to his 21 years of dedication and selfless contribution to the sport of inline hockey and the community of Eastbourne.