Hockey seeks to hook juniors

COVID-19 hit sports groups hard last year, and hockey was no exception.

Griffith Hockey Association junior co-ordinator Andrew Sinclair wants to hook some new juniors to the sport in the lead up to the 2021 playing season.

“Hockey is for everyone, we focus on fun and development, ensuring an inclusive environment is provided,” Mr Sinclair said.

“Kids who’ve never played hockey are encouraged to get involved with the sporting group.

“It is an exciting time to be involved in local hockey, with plenty of opportunities for development for kids at all levels plus with a new facility being built at the new Westend Oval Sports Precinct, our sport is set to be one to be a part of.”

The junior hockey winter program commences on Saturday, April 24 from 11am to 1pm at Beelbangera Oval, continuing weekly.

“We have two age groups with our 11 and under players taking part in the Hockey Australia ‘Hookin2Hockey” program which runs from 11am to 12 noon,” Mr Sinclair said.

“Hookin2Hockey is designed to suit anyone coming to the sport for the first time. “Hookin2Hockey gives you the opportunity to learn the basic skills of hockey, develop fundamental motor skills and make friends all while beginning your lifelong love of hockey.”

Mr Sinclair said their hockey athletes aged 12 and up also have a focus on core skill development with a program that supports them moving through the basic hockey principals to some more advanced skills.

“Their session runs from 11am to 1pm with the first hour working on skills and the second in a team-based competition,” he said.

“We welcome players of all levels, even if you have never picked up a hockey stick before.”

The group’s hockey players also have great support from Hockey NSW assisting with pathway opportunities for both developing players and those striving for something more elite.

“Apart from the normal winter representative opportunities our “Centre of Development” and Southern Sports Academy programs run in our offseason from October to April and provide plenty more opportunity for our juniors to continue to hone their skills,” Mr Sinclair said.

“The Centre of Development Program is aimed at our under 13 and 15 athletes and is about giving kids the opportunity to build skills, and not just athletic skills.

“They work on attributes like citizenship, teamwork and most of all have heaps of fun.

“Our juniors take great pride in representing our region as “The Riverina Heat” and get the opportunity to take part at the Regional Challenge that is the conclusion of our program and draws players from all regions together for a weekend of competition, development and fun.”

For athletes striving for more elite opportunities, they are also part of the Southern Sports Academy Hockey program which culminates Griffith, Wagga Wagga & Albury athletes (15 years and older) with a focus on Hockey skill and fitness development.

The academy also delivers key workshops on issues including, but not restricted to, leadership, sport psychology, strength and conditioning, recovery and core strength, drugs in sport and sports medicine principles.

The athletes train as satellite locations with the squad combining each month for further team training and trial games.

The program finishes at the Regional Academy Games held in April each year. Griffith Hockey Association has plenty to offer for those of all ages and all hockey skill levels.

If you have a youngster who is looking to try their hand at a new sport this year, hockey just might be the solution.

For more information visit https://www.griffithhockey.com.au/juniors/ or contact Junior Co-ordinator Andrew Sinclair on 0429 640 595.

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