The Goonellabah Hockey Centre and the Ballina Hockey Centre are about to be inundated with women and their big sticks as Lismore teams up with Ballina to host the NSW Northern Division Women’s Masters Hockey Championships.
The event kicks off on Friday, July 26 and runs through to Sunday at the Goonellabah Hockey Centre in Hepburn Park and the Ballina Hockey Centre.
Lismore City Mayor Steve Krieg said the collaboration between Lismore and Ballina showcases the strength and unity of our communities. ‘A lot of effort has gone into developing our Hockey Centre and hosting an event of this magnitude in Lismore is a significant achievement,’ he said.
‘This event not only brings top-tier hockey to our area but also offers an opportunity for local businesses and the community to benefit from the influx of visitors. It’s a win-win situation for everyone involved and I encourage our community to come out and support the event.’
50 teams
This year’s championships will feature 50 teams with over 850 competitors competing for top honours across the two venues. The NSW Women’s Masters Hockey Championships, which began in 1985 in Newcastle with only 16 teams, has grown significantly in size and stature over the years.
President of Far North Coast Hockey Inc., Nathan Kesteven, said the Centre is thrilled to be hosting the NSW Women’s Masters Hockey State Championships. ‘This event not only celebrates the athleticism and sportsmanship of our players but also fosters a sense of camaraderie and community spirit among all participants.
‘We’ve had a huge amount of interest from our local players and this year will be entering five highly competitive teams in the event, from the Over 34 Div 1 team up to the Over 55’s Div 1.
First time Championships held on Far North Coast
For the first time, the Championships will be held on the Far North Coast, marking a significant milestone for the region. The championships promises to be an exciting and competitive event, showcasing the talent and dedication of athletes from across the northern part of the state.
Local residents and visitors are invited to attend the event, support the teams and enjoy the exciting matches and vibrant atmosphere of the championships. The first game commences at 11am on Friday, 26 July at the Goonellabah Hockey Centre, 214 Oliver Avenue, Goonellabah and the Ballina Hockey Centre at 2C Bentinck Street, Ballina.
‘We are looking forward to welcoming teams, supporters and hockey enthusiasts to what promises to be an unforgettable weekend of competition,’ said Mr Kesteven.
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