West Gippsland Hockey is excited to launch our new All Abilities Hockey program, providing a fun, inclusive and supportive environment where people of all abilities can experience the joy of hockey.
All Abilities Hockey is designed for everyone!
This program is perfect for participants with physical, intellectual and sensory disabilities, those with limited mobility, beginners, and those who may want to build their fitness with a low impact program.
All Abilities Hockey features modified rules, fun easy drills and skill building games, and flexible coaching to make sure it’s fun for all skill levels. The program focuses on building confidence, developing skills, making new friends and, most importantly, having fun. No previous hockey experience or equipment is required, with modified activities and supportive coaches ensuring everyone can participate at their own pace.
We can't wait to welcome new players and families to the hockey community!
We’re hosting all sessions at Bellbird Park Hockey Field in Drouin!
We have three different options organised:
School Holidays - Two Sessions: Dates TBC
Participants can book all three programs, or the ones that suit them.
Do I need to be a WGHA Member?
No. Anyone can register through the links above. Please note, your registration for All Abilities Hockey covers your insurance at All Abilities Hockey, but not at other WGHA programs.
What will I need to bring?
We have sticks available for new players to use, and all other equipment. You’ll need to bring a water bottle, appropriate shoes, and we suggest bringing your own mouthguard.
What will be involved in the sessions?
These sessions are designed to be fun, inclusive and beginner friendly. We’ll have two coaches on site at each session, who will run a series of skills activities and mini-games. Our coaches will have a plan, but will also be flexible, so they might split the group to allow more experienced players to challenge themselves, or run a friendly match at the end of a session. They’ll shake up the sessions as needed to make sure everyone is having fun!
I’m an experienced player, will this program suit me?
YES! All Abilities Hockey is a great opportunity to slow down and work on your skills without putting too much strain on your body. We’re really excited to have some experienced players around to share their love of the game and help our beginners find their feet. It’s worth noting that while we’ll have some short, fun gameplay, this won’t be the right program to unleash your competitive beast.
I’ve never played a sport before, will I be able to join in?
ABSOLUTELY! You won’t be the only beginner. All Abilities Hockey is designed and run by experienced coaches who’ve taught everyone from toddlers to seniors, so they’ll take every step needed to make sure you have a great time.
I have a disability that makes it hard for me to play sport. Will this program suit me?
YES! Our coaches are experts in all ability coaching, and have designed their program to suit players with a mental, physical or hidden disability. If you would like to chat with a coach, notify us of any special requirements or discuss any concerns you have prior to the sessions, please contact info@gippsport.com.au and add ‘All Abilities Hockey’ as the subject.
Who’s running the program, and where do my registration fees go?
GippSport’s Community Programs Team is organising and running the All Abilities Hockey registration process and sessions. All registration fees are returned to the WGHA.
I'm the carer of a participant. Will I need to register as well to be covered by insurance?
Great question! If you are professional carer, for example a NDIS provider, you should be covered by your business' insurance if you are working as a carer while attending All Abilities Hockey.
Parents attending as a carer for their child will not be covered by insurance if they are not a registered participant.
How do I register myself or my child?
