M1 Announce First New Signings for 2023/24

SHC are delighted to announce that Conor Williamson and Struan Walker will join the Men’s 1s squad for the new season.

Former SHC junior player and rising star Conor returns to the club after his time at Nottingham University, while we welcome another exceptional young talent in Struan Walker, who returns to the UK after playing in Germany.

M1 Coach Mark Pearn says, “Working with Conor as a junior at Surbiton was always a pleasure, as he could play in any position, from scoring goals one week to distributing out of the back the next. His ability on the ball and passing range is a rare combination that will only add to the threat we aim to carry out of our back unit next season.

Struan is one of the most exciting attacking players in GB hockey, and there is no doubt that his goalscoring ability, technical capacity and intelligent leading will make him one to watch next season. He already has a lot of experience from his time in the Bundesliga and playing for Scotland in the Commonwealth Games, and it is clear that he wants to reach the very top of the sport.

At Surbiton, we have always been committed to supporting and developing the UK's best young players as they look to take the next step forwards with their hockey. We know that Conor and Struan will bring outstanding quality to the squad, significantly impacting how the team can play and its future success.”

Having amassed 27 GB & England caps at Under 21 level and with aspirations to step up from the EDP to the senior programme, 21-year old Conor is excited to make his return to Sugden Road: “I started playing at Surbiton at a young age and hugely enjoyed my time there before attending university. It has always been a supportive family club with a fantastic atmosphere, and the setup has improved significantly over the past year. I have enjoyed watching the guys perform during the past three years, reaching playoffs and succeeding in Europe. I am determined to play my part in achieving future success for the club at home and in the EHL again.”

EDP athlete Struan (20) made his senior debut for Scotland in the summer of 2021, and has already scored 12 goals in 18 international appearances as well as appearing at last year’s Commonwealth Games. He is looking forward to joining the M1: “I am buzzing to get started at Surbiton, as their desire and ambition to win the league again was the first thing that enticed me to join the club. Playing for a hockey club with a strong sense of family gives me the extra motivation to fight on the pitch, and this was evident at Surbiton whenever I visited, attracting me here even more. I want to win titles and enjoy helping the team become the best in England again. I am confident in my choice of Surbiton and look forward to joining up with the guys ahead of next season.”

From all at the club, welcome to Conor & Struan, and we look forward to seeing you in action for Surbiton in the new season!