Oral HISTORY INTERVIEWS
Much of the history that we store in our heads is lost as we age or pass away. Oral history is the practice of recording people’s recollections and personal stories for the future.
Our oral history programme captures the ‘lived experiences’ of the hockey family: the great and the good of our sport; coaches, umpires, players and administrators from all backgrounds and levels of hockey.
Oral History Collection
Welcome to the Hockey Museum’s Oral History Collection. These audio recordings capture the personal stories, memories, and experiences of players, coaches, officials, and fans who have been part of hockey’s rich heritage. Each interview offers unique insights into the game’s evolution, memorable moments, and the people who shaped hockey history. Listen to these voices from the past as they share their passion for the sport and their contributions to the hockey community.
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Joanna (Jo) Thompson is a former England and Great Britain hockey goalkeeper. Born in Kent, Jo started playing hockey at school, initially in defence. She joined Slough Hockey Club because her Physical Education teacher was also their manager. As goalkeeper, Jo played for England in the 1990 World Cup and for Great Britain in the 1992 Barcelona and 1996 Atlanta Olympic Games.In this interview Jo recounts the highs and lows of her hockey playing career, her approach to goalkeeping, her rivalries with other goalkeepers, how goalkeeping kit has evolved over the years and how she balanced her goalkeeping alongside a successful career outside of hockey.Jo also discusses her experiences of competing in hockey as a gay woman, the effects that Section 28 had on British society and hockey, and how attitudes towards an individual's sexuality have changed over time.
Interview date: 2023-09-09
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