Parks marks 80 great years

WHEN you consider that sporting clubs rely on their volunteers, sponsors and club members to keep going, reaching the 80 years milestone is a significant achievement, which is exactly what Parks Hockey Club has done.

Parks Hockey Club was formed in 1939 when a boys’ team, originating from the Hermit Park State School, was entered in the association’s competition.

The following year, a Parks Senior Men’s team was formed and training was held at the Hermit Park State School and on salt pan flats, now the Lakes.

Ladies teams first represented the club in 1947 and the club has a rich history of producing many talented young players, some of whom have gone on to reach the pinnacle of the game representing their country and even playing in the Olympics. Barry Malcolm and Merv Crossman gained selection in the Rome Olympics team in 1960, with Merv also representing in Tokyo in 1964. Jim Mason represented in the 1968 and 1972 Olympic teams.

These players paved the way for many future players representing at a regional, state, national and international level.

Hockey is a sport that creates a community. There are many people and families who have been involved with Parks over the past 80 years who have contributed, and are still contributing as players, coaches, administrators and volunteers.

To celebrate 80 years since its inauguration in 1939, Parks Hockey Club will hold a gala dinner for all past and present members, family, friends and club sponsors.

The event will be held on Saturday, July 13, at The Ville. For more information contact the club at parkshockey@bigpond.com.