Bigger games, more action and an unforgettable Bank Holiday weekend!

Get ready for another thrilling Bank Holiday showdown as the 2026 Indoor Hockey UK Derby Grand Slam returns this May! With teams travelling from across the country, this flagship event promises three days of fast-paced indoor hockey, fierce competition, and a fantastic atmosphere both on and off the court.

Whether you’re competing for silverware, supporting your club, or discovering indoor hockey for the first time, Derby is the place to be this May.

The 2026 Derby Grand Slam will take place from Saturday 23 May to Monday 25 May 2026, once again aligning perfectly with the May Bank Holiday and school half term — ideal for a full weekend of hockey and family-friendly travel.

All age groups offered at Indoor Hockey UK events will return for 2026, following England Hockey Club age brackets (from 1 September). After strong feedback and record participation in recent seasons, several age groups will benefit from more games and longer match formats this year.

Saturday 23 May 2026

Under 10 Boys & Girls / Session 1 AM / Warm Up: 08:00 / Games Start: 09:00 / Presentations: 11:45

Under 12 Girls / Session 2 PM / Warm Up: 11:45 / Games Start: 12:30 / Presentations: 16:45

Under 16 Boys & Girls / Session 3 PM / Warm Up: 16:45 / Games Start: 17:30 / Presentations: 21:45

Sunday 24 May 2026

Under 14 Girls / Session 1 AM / Warm Up: 08:00 / Games Start: 09:00 / Presentations: 16:30

Men's & Women's / Session 2 PM / Warm Up: 16:30 / Games Start: 17:15 / Presentations: 21:45

Monday 25 May 2026

Under 12 Boys / Session 1 AM / Warm Up: 08:00 / Games Start: 09:00 / Presentations: 13:15

Under 14 Boys / Session 2 PM / Warm Up: 13:15 / Games Start: 14:00 / Presentations: 20:45

All teams should arrive at the venue in time for the warmup session as this is the only time available to them for on pitch warm up and should stay until the completion of the Presentations.

Team sign in opens 60 minutes before the games start time stated for each age group and a team representative, ideally the manger or coach, must ensure they have signed in with the event command table at least 20 minutes before games start.

The match schedules for each age group will be available via the event hub. All timings are subject to change depending on the number of entries received but we will always look to try and fit the competitions within the published times above.

We're always trying to maximise pitch time and ensure all teams get as much indoor hockey activity as possible; whilst also taking into account the welfare and safety of the players by making sure they don't get too much!

The Under 10 & Under 12's will stay as previous years, with 10 minute one way games - but they will see an increase in the number of games they get to play (as long as enough teams enter).

The Under 14, Under 16, Under 18 and adults will all play 10 minute each way games. This is a change for the Under 14's and followed great feedback from the Championships.

The Under 12's and Under 14's will also have split sessions - so teams won't be hanging around for as long. The other age groups will still play interchanging between boys and girls to help avoid back to back, but as these have fewer teams there will still be less waiting around.

These changes are all based on feedback from previous events and it should mean everyone will receive significant pitch time across the weekend, ensuring a competitive but enjoyable experience for every squad.

The event will once again be hosted at the outstanding Derby Arena, located at Pride Park, Royal Way, Derby, DE24 8JB. Widely regarded as a home of indoor hockey in the UK, Derby Arena continues to provide a first-class playing and spectator experience, making it a firm favourite among players and supporters alike.

- £260 per team

- Entries open Wednesday 4 February 2026 at 7pm

- Enter online via enter.indoorhockey.uk

The small increase in the entry fee reflects longer match formats and expanded playing opportunities while ensuring the event remains fully self-funded and high quality.

We will once again be recruiting umpires, officials, and workforce volunteers to support the event. Returning officials will be able to submit availability and new officials can register now to be added to the mailing list to sign up. More details on recruitment will be shared through our website and social media channels throughout March.

- Spectator tickets will be released in March 2026

- Available via tickets.indoorhockey.uk

Following the success of live streaming at our recent Championships, we are hoping to introduce live-streamed matches at the Derby Grand Slam for 2026, alongside event photography with team photos, allowing players, families, and clubs to relive the action long after the final whistle.

With enhanced match formats, increased game time, and exciting plans for streaming and photography, the 2026 Indoor Hockey UK Derby Grand Slam is shaping up to be our biggest and best yet. Mark the dates, rally your club, and get ready for a weekend packed with unforgettable indoor hockey moments