National hockey honour for Read

HOCKEY Tasmania chairman Ken Read’s involvement in hockey across five decades is unparalleled and his significant contribution has been officially recognised by the sport’s national body.

Read has been awarded life membership of Hockey Australia for his service to the sport across many roles.

“He has significantly aided the growth and development of the game in Australia and remains hugely passionate, playing a key role in his home state Tasmania,” Hockey Australia president Melanie Woosnam said.

Read rose through the Tasmanian ranks to be selected to play as a goalkeeper for Australia at the 1978 Champions Trophy. After his playing retirement, Read was the Australian men’s team’s manager from 1993 to 1996 and coached several Tasmanian teams over a 29-year period.

The Hobart-based lawyer also officiated at numerous major international events, including as tournament director at the 2006 World Cup, 2008 Beijing Olympics and 2010 World Cup.

“I’m very lucky to have been to six Olympic Games in various positions and formats from managing to administrating,” Read said.

“I never made it to play at an Olympics, which probably gave me the desire to keep going, coaching and working in administration.”

Read continues to serve hockey in his roles as Hockey Tasmania chairman, chair of the Federation of International Hockey (FIH) Competitions Committee and as a field player with the Tasmanian University Hockey Club.