The 12 stong team was chosen after a tough selection and training process and were active in seven different games, including the men’s bronze medal match between England and South Africa.

Team leader and chairman Jonathan Allchin said: “It was an amazing privilege to chaperone this group of young adults.

“Seeing how they developed in confidence over the course of the seven sessions was wonderful to see.

“I hope they have experienced something they will never forget and look back on fondly.”

He added: “Stone Hockey Club is going through some very exciting times, including a merger with Stone Rugby Club, a new clubhouse for both clubs and significant investments in coaching and teams to move the club further up the leagues.”

Members of the ball patrol team, which ranged from 14 to 17-year-old, spoke about their time in Birmingham.

Ellen Clarke said: “I enjoyed holding the flags as the team members ran out onto the pitch, the atmosphere from the crowd made it a very memorable moment.”

Beatrice Thorpe said: “It was a real privilege to get to see world class hockey so close up. I also thought as a group we bonded well and got to know each other far better.”

Fraser Dimberline said: “I enjoyed the ball patrolling a lot and enjoyed an interaction with Brendan Creed after I placed the ball down for a PC but my favourite moment was when all the England men’s players came out of their way after the bronze medal match to sign our caps.”

Marc Ebrey Hardenberg said: “It was an overall amazing experience, sharing the pitch with my hockey heroes. I was very proud when I was carrying the Canadian flag, as my grandmother lives in Canada.

“We also managed to get a signed shirt by the Indian men’s team, which was very exciting!”

More information can be found on their social media, by searching for Stone Hockey Club, where they can also contact the team or email info@stonehockeyclub.co.uk.

Article written by Leah Cassidy