Hockey’s man with the plan
THE new boss of hockey in this state believes the sport has a great story to tell and is well positioned to leverage upcoming major events to boost junior participation.
Damian Smith will officially start in the role on August 22.
“Hockey in Tasmania is about to enter a very exciting period where we have the opportunity to generate greater leverage and engagement through the Australian Hockey League [AHL] and FIH Pro League matches,” Smith, pictured right, said.
“My vision is to create a position where our sport is a leader and the sport of choice for boys and girls, resulting from a greater profile and participation right across the state.”
Hobart has secured four AHL matches, with the Tassie Tigers and Van Demons set to play home matches against ACT and NSW on October 6 and 14 respectively. The Kookaburras and Hockeyroos will also return to the state in February 2019 and 2020, with eight crucial FIH Pro League matches against Germany, China and Pakistan to be broadcast across the world.
“The Pro League will be big, bold and loud and anyone who loves watching high-quality sport with great off-field entertainment should not want to miss what will be the best sport this state sees in the next 12 months.
“These events also give our up-andcoming players the ability to see the best in the world, as well as enabling products of our programs like Eddie Ockenden and Jeremy Edwards to play in their home state.
“We will be looking to use these events to grow new and existing revenue streams and, alongside a very progressive board, continue on our pathway to delivering better outcomes for our 4500-plus members.”
A former president of OHA Hockey Club, Australian Masters representative player and chair of the Southern Competitions Committee, Smith says he also brings a wealth of professional experience to the role.
“I have a broad understanding of our sport, including a statewide perspective of how it’s tracking and my 20 years in various senior management roles will also assist in balancing the operational and business key requirements,” Smith said.