Hockey Ballarat is a sports club located in Ballarat, Victoria, dedicated to promoting and enhancing the game of hockey in the region. As the umbrella organisation for hockey in Ballarat, Hockey Ballarat provides the governance, planning, facilities, and coordination of competitions to bring their strategic plan for hockey to life.
Their vision is clear – to create a positive and engaging environment that inspires people of all ages to keep coming back to play, officiate, volunteer, and support hockey in the Ballarat region. They strive to foster inclusivity, offering opportunities for individuals from all backgrounds and abilities to participate and excel in the sport.
Hockey Ballarat is committed to growing and enhancing the game of hockey for all its participants. They work closely with their affiliated clubs to ensure that the game is accessible to everyone. They offer a “Hook into Hockey” programme in local primary schools, exposing children to the sport and attracting them to become active participants. In 2019, this introductory programme, known as Hin2H, saw the participation of 1000 children.
Player development is a key focus for Hockey Ballarat. They provide coaching and competitive opportunities through their affiliated clubs, fostering a pathway for juniors to progress in hockey. By offering a strong local men's and women's competitions, the club aims to increase retention and engagement among adult players.
Volunteer participation in umpiring and administration is highly encouraged by Hockey Ballarat. They recognise the importance of volunteers in the development of the sport and view them as an integral part of their growth. They also prioritise maintaining sound governance, taking a self-reliant approach, and embracing community initiatives to ensure the long-term sustainability of the club.
Hockey Ballarat is proud to support the pathway to elite competitions for both juniors and seniors by backing West Vic, an organisation that provides opportunities for players to participate in higher-level tournaments.
As a club, Hockey Ballarat values inclusivity, creating a positive and engaging environment, and inspiring participation among individuals of all ages. They strive to uphold these values in everything they do, from organising competitions and events to engaging with their community.
For more information about Hockey Ballarat and to stay updated on their events, please visit their website.