Finance Article 25-26

Supporting the Future of CUHC

CUHC is an ambitious and thriving club, committed to excellence both on and off the pitch. Our aim is to see both Men’s and Women’s Blues teams competing in the National League, over a consistent period, making Cambridge one of the leading Universities for hockey in the country. This ambition is underpinned by the strength and depth of the entire club, with all teams striving to play as high up the East League and BUCS pyramids as possible. Every player, from the 1st XI to the 4th teams, plays a vital role in pushing the club forward.

Investing in Excellence

To achieve this level of performance and growth, we need more than talent and passion. Top-level coaching across all teams, from the Blues to the lower squads, is essential. So too is the ability to cover transport costs, provide physiotherapy, strength and conditioning support, and ensure our players are well looked after throughout the season. These costs are significant and would add to the existing costs which are summarised in the pie chart below.

Growing the Club and the Game

We are also committed to expanding access to hockey in Cambridge. Our ambition to field 5th teams for both men and women in the local (East) Leagues reflects the growing demand for the sport among students. CUHC also runs the College Leagues and helps to ensure that everyone who wants to play hockey, gets a chance. This expansion not only helps more students get involved in this great game, but also strengthens our community and talent pipeline.

The Financial Reality

Running a club of this size and ambition is expensive. Despite our best efforts, the financial burden still falls largely on our student members. As shown in the pie charts, student subscriptions and match fees make up a substantial portion of our income. Over the past decade, these costs have increased – a trend we are keen to reverse with the help of our alumni supporters, either through direct support or helping us engage with more sponsors.

Alumni Support: A Lasting Impact

Since we last reached out in this way to our alumni in August 2020, your generosity has made a real difference. Thanks to your support, we’ve been able to establish the Vann Club Bursaries, which provide assistance to players who are in financial need. These bursaries have already helped 38 students continue playing hockey with less financial strain over the last three years, showing the power of sustained alumni giving.

Looking Ahead

While we are fortunate to receive support from sponsors (as shown in the pie chart), alumni donations remain uniquely valuable. Sponsorship can vary year to year as circumstance dicate, so alumni contributions provide a reliable foundation that allows us to plan and grow with confidence. We are incredibly grateful for this support — and we hope to see it continue to grow in the years ahead.

All donations will be gratefully received. Gift Aid is claimed on donations from UK taxpayers and all funds come directly to the club. Suggested levels of giving for those on regular income is:

For those 1-5 years since graduation £1-5 per month

For those 5-15 years since graduation £4-15 per month

For those 15+ years since graduation £8-25 per month

For retired and non-earners As appropriate

If you would like to discuss a more substantial level of support or are able to help the club secure sponsorship, please do contact us at alumni@cuhc.org.uk.