The votes are in, the people have spoken and we’re pleased to present to you, your Men’s Player of the Decade…
Derek Salmond
Last decade Del was a crucial figure of both the Men’s 1s outdoor and indoor squads. He has endured the pain of relegation and reveled in the joy of promotion, all the while wearing the purple of Inverleith.
We caught up with Del to let him know about your decision to vote him Player of the Decade. Here’s what he thought of the honour:
“Firstly, I would like to say how honoured I am being voted POTD. It’s awesome! I’m really thrilled to have been recognised in this way. “
“IHC has always been a second family to me and what I love the most is despite many changes and challenges the brilliant club spirit remains the same. I’m as proud putting on purple today as I was at my first U10 tournament in Steps, some 26 years ago. I love seeing IHC be a future embracing, progressive club and hope that continues over the next 10 years. Fingers crossed we’ll have a club house by then.”
I’m as proud putting on purple today as I was at my first U10 tournament in Steps, some 26 years ago.
– Derek Salmond
“I must also mention that, although the Men’s and Women’s 1st teams are our shop window, more and more I recognise the value of our junior and development teams.”
“They bring the club alive and really are the heart of IHC – it can’t be understated how important this group is and what their support means to our performance teams. Additionally, a massive thanks to all the committee, coaches and everyone who continues to give up their time to support the club.”
“Thank you again for this recognition 
. Safe to say I feel pretty bad missing training the other day 
.”
Alan Wall has had the good fortune to have know Del his entire hockey career. He has had the opportunity to watch Del grow into his purple shirt and go on to achieve great things. Here’s what he had to say when we told him Del had been voted PotD:
“I first encountered Del as captain of the 3s and a young 14 yr old was sent to play for me. Most of his friends had been sent higher up but we were lucky to have him for a few months.”
“It quickly became apparent that he was destined for greater things though. What sets Del apart from many other of our elite players over the years is his humbleness and attitude. He always has a smile on his face and never complains or grumbles.”
What sets Del apart from many other of our elite players over the years is his humbleness and attitude.
– Alan Wall
“As one of the ‘good guys’ he was often the bridesmaid for the national team but his hard work and perseverance finally paid off when he was selected for the Commonwealth Games in Delhi.”
“When the club came upon more difficult times with the men’s 1s getting relegated Del was the rock that the club rebuilt around. When the club was a goal down against Racing Club Bruxelles at our home euros up stepped Del with the all important equaliser.”
