September Newsletter

On behalf of the West Gippsland Hockey Association Board, I extend our deepest gratitude to everyone who contributed to making the 2025 season an outstanding success. This year has been defined by significant growth, both on and off the field, and a powerful sense of community spirit that resonates through every club,  team and age group.

We have witnessed our association continue to thrive, a testament to the dedication of our players, the unwavering commitment of our coaches and team managers, and the incredible support from our families and volunteers. This collective effort is the foundation of our association's success, and it is what makes WGHA a special place to play hockey.

 

• Membership: We celebrated a membership of approximately 300 players, which is a slight dip on last year but not alarming. We have modest growth across junior ranks which is a good sign of the health and appeal of our sport and our clubs.
• Unprecedented Sponsor Support: We experienced a huge increase in sponsorship revenue and support. This vital investment has directly enhanced our facilities, equipment, and programs, improving the experience for every member.
• Competitive Success: Our teams competed with great passion and sportsmanship across all grades, with many achieving great success in their respective competitions. Special mention must to our U14 Strikers who brought home the flag this season after only conceding four goals during the home and away rounds.
• Community Engagement: The atmosphere at our home ground was vibrant all season, highlighting the strong community we have built together.

 

The engine room of our association is, and always will be, our volunteers. Your efforts are the cornerstone of our club.

• To our Coaches: Thank you for your countless hours on the training track and on the sidelines. Your expertise, encouragement, and dedication to developing our players' skills and love for the game are deeply valued.
• To our Team Managers: The season simply could not run without you. Thank you for managing the logistics, communications, and countless details that keep our teams organised and focused on playing.
• To all Volunteers: From canteen staff and umpires to and committee members—thank you. Your contribution, whether large or small, makes a monumental difference.

 

Our association's growth and ability to provide a top-quality experience are profoundly supported by our sponsorship family. Their belief in our community allows us to invest in our future. We extend our sincerest thanks to:

 

• Bendigo Bank: Your continued and foundational support as a major community partner has been instrumental in our development.
• Immakulate: Thank you for your fantastic support and for helping our uniforms and facilities look their best.
• White Rhino: We are grateful for your commitment to our club and for partnering with us to achieve our goals.
• A1 Asphalting: Your generous contribution is greatly appreciated and helps us maintain and improve our hockey for all members.

We encourage all our members to support these fantastic local businesses who so generously support us.

 

Building on the momentum of 2025, the committee is already planning for an even bigger and better 2026 season. We are focused on:

 

• Continuing to improve our facilities and equipment. It’s no secret that our pitch is beginning to show signs of its age, and we’re thankful for the careful stewardship that Steve Austin and others have shown over the years in maintaining and cleaning the surface. The good news is that Baw Baw Shire Council have schedule in capital works funding for the replacement of the surface within the next two years or so. As part of this, we are also exploring ways to upgrade our lighting to a better standard.
• Developing our coaching and umpiring pathways. We have been very lucky to partner with Hockey Vic’s regional assistance program and Aisha Alim, who has been a fantastic umpire coach for our established and emerging umpires. Well done to Mark Smith and the “third team” of umpires for running all our games professionally and safely throughout the season.
• Implementing programs to engage and retain our growing membership. Massive thanks to Raj Singh for running our Hook in2Hockey program as well as ongoing sessions for our smallest members. Next season we will look to expand our schools outreach program and partner with some of our key regional schools to implement hockey programs. 
  
  

Thank you once again to every player, parent, volunteer, and sponsor. The 2025 season was a resounding success because of you. We hope you have a safe and enjoyable off-season and look forward to welcoming you all back to the field in 2026.