03.05.1945 – 20.05.2024

It is with much sadness that The Hockey Museum reports the passing of Graham Evans who died on 20 May.

Graham started his hockey career at Churcher’s College, Petersfield. He was also an extremely talented cricketer who was signed on the books of Hampshire County Cricket Club whilst still at school. However, parental advice pointed him to Southampton University to study law and play hockey as his sport. It turned out to be sound advice as he spent his career as a solicitor with the London firm of Monroe Pennefather where he eventually became a partner.

Graham’s early hockey career was with Surbiton Hockey Club. He was selected to play county hockey for Hampshire and later Surrey and was selected to play divisional hockey for the South. His wonderful ball skills and close control brought him to the attention of the England selectors and he made his international debut on 1 April 1967 against Scotland at Hurlingham Park. He made his debut for Great Britain later that year at Lord’s Cricket Ground playing against West Germany. He marked this GB debut with a goal. Graham played a total of 14 times for Great Britain including the 1972 Olympic Games in Munich. His England career continued playing in the 1973 World Cup in Amstelveen and the 1974 European Nations Cup in Madrid, his 44th and final England cap being the bronze medal game against the Netherlands.

Graham’s club career saw him join Hounslow for the 1979/80 season where he later became First XI captain and held the office of Club Captain. Graham was also a member of the Ladykillers Hockey Club enjoying several festivals and European trips. Away from the hockey pitch Graham was a keen golfer and member of Cowdray Park Golf Club.

He is survived by his wife Sandra, son David, daughter Jessica, granddaughter Lila and son-in-law Tim. We send our condolences to them and the wider family circle.