Jennifer-
Sounds amazing!
I have learned about the rowing “dynasty” of the Playfords and visiting the club sounds like quite the experience!
I am waiting to see some photos that are at my mom’s house to verify, but I’m 99% certain my GGF Arthur was a field hockey player (Captain for a time, and “an international”) with the Staines Hockey Club.
Of course I’d love to visit these places, but being in Canada I can’t for now.
My grandmother Joan was Arthur’s daughter (she had older twin sisters Pamela and Margery). All three were active in WW2. Pamela in WAAF, Margery in ATS, and Joan in WRNS.
Joan met my grandfather (in Canadian Navy, lent to British Admiralty) in the US on naval tours. They started their family together in Canada after the war.
Looking forward to hearing more from you and your friend and hearing how we are related

Shannon