A new generation of hockeyroos and kookaburras are getting their first taste of the sport as part of a come-and-try program through Dubbo Hockey.
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A number of those kids were part of an I Love Hockey Day at Dubbo on Saturday, part of National Hockey Week celebrations.
“We decided to run a come-and-try event to attract some new players and it has been very successful,” Dubbo Hockey secretary Margaret Mould said.
“It’s been running for six weeks and we have new players coming every week but quite a few of those have come back for multiple sessions.
“We’ve had quite a few players who have actually registered for this season as a result.”
As part of the fun on Saturday, youth and experience went head-to-head, with kids talking on adults in a friendly match.
There were also a number of small-sided games for kids, followed by a sausage sizzle to raise money for the Little Wings Charity.
“Hockey NSW has partnered with Little Wings so we thought we would try and raise some money on the day to give to this deserving charity that flies sick children long distances for medical treatment they need,” Mould said.
“We raised $276 from the barbecue and a donation made by one of the clubs, which was great.”
The Dubbo Hockey Association season starts this week, with high school aged juniors playing on Friday afternoons and the younger age groups on Saturday mornings.
It’s not too late for anyone interested to get involved, with Mould saying new players would be accepted, even after the season has begun.
“We’d like to see more players in the under 7s and 9s age groups but we would never turn away anyone who wants to play,” Mould said.
“Our registration fees are very reasonable.
“For under 7s and 9s it is $25, for those aged 11 it is $51 and 12 or older are looking at $100.”
High school games start from 5.30pm on Friday, while under 7s run between 11.30am and 12.30pm on Saturday, followed by under 9s at 12.30-1.30pm and under 12s between 1.30-2.30pm at Dubbo Hockey Centre.
Parents can also claim a $100 active kids rebate from the NSW government to help subsidise the registration fees.
Dubbo Hockey has also introduced an incentive program where members who introduce a new member will receive $50.
Anyone who is interested in signing up for the Dubbo Hockey competition can contact the junior convener on 0439400768 or email hockey@dubbohockey.com.au.
