Two players fight for the ball during a Hockey One League match. (Photo: Hockey One)
Parkes will become the first regional host ever for a Hockey One match this November with Parkes hockey stars in action.
The NSW Pride vs Canberra Chill hockey match will take place on the 12th of November at the McGlynn Sports Complex. The game is expected to bring over 1,000 visitors and spectators to town, providing a welcomed boost to the local tourism, hospitality and retail industries.
Parkes Shire Council has received an Australian Sports Commission grant of $50,000 to help host the match in conjunction with Parkes Hockey Inc, Hockey NSW and Hockey Australia.
The Sultana Bran Hockey One League is Australia’s new national hockey league, pitching seven state teams containing both men’s and women’s leagues, in a season of fast and exciting games.
“This event will provide a fantastic opportunity for the regional community to reconnect and celebrate through one of the most popular sports in the Parkes Shire,” said Parkes Shire Councillor Louise O’Leary.
“With a number of highly skilled athletes travelling here for the special clash, this will give local fans a rare opportunity to watch their idols play hockey live,” she said. The NSW Pride team will bring a superstar line-up of players from the Hockeyroos and Kookaburras, including Parkes’ very own Mariah Williams and Kurt Lovett. The Parkes game is one of three huge home matches for the NSW Pride teams. The other two will be played at Sydney Olympic Park Hockey Centre.
The event will be live streamed on Kayo, providing an international sporting audience for those unable to attend in person.
Council is also working with Parkes Hockey Incorporated to leverage this game within the region with planning underway for a coaching clinic on Saturday prior to the televised games, along with the potential for a sportspersons’ dinner that evening.
Tickets for the game are on sale now. Visit www.hockeyone.com.au for more information and to purchase your tickets.