UEA hockey pitch renamed to honour two local sporting legends
By: Communications
The University of East Anglia (UEA) and UEA Sportspark have paid tribute to two significant figures in university sport by renaming a hockey pitch in their honour.
Formerly known as ‘Astro Pitch 2’ at the Sportspark, the pitch will now proudly bear the name ‘Hart and Covell Pitch’, recognising the lasting impact of Norman Hart and the late Michael Covell on the UEA Hockey community.
Michael Covell
Michael Covell joined UEA Hockey in 1997, quickly becoming known and loved across the club. His time at UEA was tragically cut short when he passed away from meningitis during his first semester.
Michael’s legacy lives on through the club’s unwavering commitment to fundraising for Meningitis Now, with thousands raised across the years in his memory, alongside being honoured through UEA's latest hockey pitch dedication.
David and John Covell, Michael’s brother and father, said: “On behalf of Michael’s whole family, we are thankful for this touching tribute to his memory. Michael worked hard to get a place at UEA and was excited to study there, as well as discover a new part of the world so far from his home. From the regular updates we received, it was clear he settled in quickly and the hockey club was a big part of that.
“Michael loved all aspects of his sport, especially the friendships he made through it. Sadly, he only had ten weeks at UEA, but they were happy weeks. He would enjoy remaining part of the hockey at UEA in some way, although none of us ever imagined it would take this form. We wish the UEA Hockey club continuing success, both on and off the pitch.”
Norman Hart
Norman Hart has been an influential figure within UEA Hockey for more than five decades. Starting as a coach in 1971, he went on to serve as Club Captain (President) from 1972 to 1987, before becoming Honorary President – a role he still proudly holds.
His passion for developing umpires has shaped countless careers, with many reaching national and international levels thanks to his mentorship. Recognised regionally with East Hockey’s award for 50 years of service, and nationally with the prestigious BUCS AD Munrow Award for his long-term contributions to university sport, Norman’s dedication to UEA Hockey remains as strong today as it was 54 years ago.
The official pitch name change took place on Saturday 15 November during the annual UEA Hockey ‘Old Boys’ weekend – a celebration packed with local league fixtures, a charity quiz to fundraise for Meningitis Now, a mixed alumni match, and a lively evening event. This weekend event fulfilled the promise made at the Hart and Covell Hockey Alumni Gala in May 2024, to formally rename the pitch in Norman and Michael’s honour.
Norman Hart said: “I was blown away by the fantastic support for Meningitis Now, and the amazing work from current students to still be fundraising 28 years after the sad passing of Michael. I am also very grateful for how I have been made to feel warmly welcomed and looked after by both uea+sport and all of the students.
“It was a brilliant weekend, and I know Michael and his cohort of fellow members will be very grateful for the continued fundraising efforts and connection to the club’s history.”
Image: UEA Hockey players during a UEA 3 vs UEA 4 local league fixture
Phil Steele (UEA’s Director of Sport and Commercial Services) recognised both Michael and Norman’s impacts to the sport, saying: “We are delighted to formally recognise these two wonderful individuals and their impact on UEA Hockey.
“Not many have had such a profound impact in their first semester as Michael Covell. He had an infectious personality and was incredibly well-liked and known to the whole club. Since his heartbreaking passing from meningitis in 1997, UEA Hockey – and its students past and present – have been relentless in their efforts to fundraise for the Meningitis Now charity.
“The sense of connection to Norman Hart from all of UEA Hockey cannot be underestimated. We hope this pitch naming goes some way to show the esteem in which he is held in at UEA, and the respect all of us – staff and students alike – have for him.
“We would also like to thank all of our students involved with UEA Hockey across the years, who have continued to keep the club’s rich and important history alive.”
Image: UEA Hockey members during a mixed alumni fixture
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