Primary Schools Gala Day at Pioneer Park
STUDENTS travelled from across the Dubbo and Orana regions to participate in an introduction to hockey and skills development session at the newly re-laid pitch in West Dubbo.
Hockey NSW Western Regional Coaching Co-ordinator Kate Pulbrook ran more than 50 students through the basics and provided additional tuition to the more confident players.
The day was timely with our Kookaburras (mens) and Hockeyroos teams in final preparation for the Commonwealth Games.
Jordan Smith from the Dubbo Hockey Association (DHA) was an able assistant, no doubt hoping to attract more players to the sport.
“Gala Days play a vital role in exposing children from all areas and backgrounds to the whole of hockey. These are kids who may not otherwise get the opportunity,” according to DHA secretary Vanessa Brown.
“We have an Open Day coming up on March 17 and we are aiming to attract as many prospective players as possible for a come-and-try event. In keeping with the family nature of the sport there will be jumping castles, kids’ activities and modified hockey games,” Vanessa added.
Dubbo is in a good place as far as the quality of players, however Vanessa says the Association is trying to attract more to the game.
‘With this in mind we are focussing on growth in 2018. We are offering incentives to players, both senior and junior, with some reduced-price starter packs in addition to the State government assistance with registration fees.”