Toowoomba’s Clyde Park is set to host Queensland hockey titles

Queensland’s best hockey players are coming to Toowoomba

TITLES IN TOWN: Stafford Strikers’ Micah Mathewson (left) battles for the ball during the Club Glenvale Challenge. Toowoomba is set to host the Queensland titles in May.

HOCKEY: COVID-19 concerns put the brakes on a lot of major sporting competitions and championships last year.

The pandemic however has created an opportunity for the Toowoomba Hockey Association (THA).

With potential future COVID-19 clusters and lockdowns at the front of their decision making process Hockey Queensland has opted to move the state championships to Toowoomba in May.

THA were unsuccessful in their original bid but are now busily preparing for the titles which will 100s of people to the region.

“It’s a very exciting opportunity for us,” THA’s regional hockey and coaching manager Matt Cook said.

“I’m probably a bit bias but I think we have Queensland’s premier hockey facility right here in Toowoomba – the perfect to place to hold the titles.

“We (Toowoomba) have a rich history around hosting the titles and a proven track record when it comes to hosting these type of events.

“It will however be the first time we have ever hosted the men’s and women’s open championships at the same time.”

The Open men’s team should fancy their chances at the titles with a little bit of history on their side.

“The last time we hosted the titles are men’s team won it,” Cook said.

“Obviously we have no indication of team numbers at this stage but we’d be expecting to draw teams from Far North and Central Queensland, the Gold and Sunshine coasts and Brisbane.

“The best players in the state will be playing here but I think we will be able to produce some very good quality teams.”

Due to the massive size of the undertaking THA is already putting out the call for volunteers.

“We understand volunteer can be a significant demand,” Cook said.

“We are however hoping members of the public might be willing to chip in and volunteer some of their time even if it’s only for a few hours.”

The championships will run from May 1-3. Anyone interested in volunteering can email phcommittee@
toowoombahockey.com.au

Originally published as Toowoomba’s Clyde Park is set to host Queensland hockey titles