Hockey club invites players to join fun

It is often said sport is dying in Newcastle, but members of the hockey club wish to differ.

Craig Pederson, a committee member of Newcastle Hockey Club, said the club is determined to rekindle a passion and love for sport in town. The club may participate in the quads regional divisions representing the town, but the social aspect is also important. “Since hockey is a very social sport, we want it to be a community sport, something everyone can enjoy,” enthused Mr Pederson.

In the past, the club played a pivotal role to instigate interest in sport in the community. This is still the major focus of the club, with members participating on a regional, provincial and national level. “We participate in the regional quads league, which involves towns from around the district.

“Within these quads, tournaments are hosted to select players and teams to represent the region on a provincial level,” explained Mr Pederson.

The club also aims to stimulate growing interest in hockey among the youth of Newcastle, and instil a love for the sport.

In its endeavours, the club often challenges Newcastle’s schools to games.

“It’s not just the young hockey players we want to encourage, but even those who have never played the sport before. You don’t have to be skilled. You just have to be interested, and the club will facilitate your growth as a player,” said Mr Pederson. With the Newcastle Hockey Club preparing to host next year’s Quads Tournament, the club wishes to continue growing, and hopes to involve more community members in this sport. Mr Pederson invites residents to join the club, as it hosts men’s and women’s teams. The club meets every Tuesday and Thursday at Arbor Park Sports Grounds, from 6pm to 8pm.

For more information, contact Dean Bond on 084 581 3758, or Mr Pederson on 082 581 4460.