Territory Stingers receive big funding boost from NT government

The Territory’s only professional sports team has had another major breakthrough with the help of an international body joining its Hockey One aspirations.

The first Festival of Hockey match between the Territory Stingers and Brisbane Blaze. Picture: Pema Tamang Pakhrin

The Territory Stingers have officially been announced as members of the Malaysian Hockey League for the next four years.

The landmark deal will have the NT hockey side based in Kuala Lumpur for the 2025 season to accommodate an adjusted schedule.

Tournament dates have been brought forward in order to accommodate Ramadan, creating a difficult competition format for the Stingers.

MHC president Dato’ Sri Subahan said he and the league were excited for the NT side to unleash itself in the league.

“The Stingers bring fresh energy and a unique perspective to the MHL,” he said.

“Their participation enhances our reputation as a premier hockey competition in the region.

“We look forward to their impact both on and off the field.”

The first Festival of Hockey match between the Territory Stingers and Brisbane Blaze. Picture: Pema Tamang Pakhrin

Hockey NT chief executive echoed Subahan’s comments but highlighted the challenges the two parties would face.

Butcher said the partnership would foster mutual growth as well as strengthen both bodies along the way.

Additionally, Subahan announced his plans for future collaborations between the MHC and the Stingers most notably included a joint submission between HNT and MHC to enter the Hockey One league.

As for 2025, the season will be held from January 4 to February 22 across a three week block; the men’s and women’s teams will play 12 games in 21 days, if they make grand finals.

NT gov’t pours in cash to support our hockey team’s Asian debut

The NT government has given the Territory Stingers $150,000 in funding to support their venture into the 2025 Malaysian Hockey League (MHL).

The support will improve the Stingers’ ability to represent the NT and Australia in a premier international competition while strengthening their development programs.

The Stingers also have support from corporate and community partners, with the government funding enhancing the side’s ability to showcase the NT to the world.

The Stingers playing in the Malaysian competition will allow Territorians to get a taste of high-level competition, which they were unable to do after being excluded from Hockey One.

The NT government have provided $150,000 in funding for the Territory Stingers. Picture: Pema Tamang Pakhrin

Hockey NT chief executive Jason Butcher said they were incredibly grateful for the support from the NT government and that it was a huge boon ahead of the competition.

“This venture is not just about competition, opportunity and aspiration; it’s about celebrating our community, protecting our legacy, and highlighting our multicultural and Indigenous heritage.

“We are equally grateful for the unwavering support from Steve Rowe and SRA, whose contribution has been vital in getting us to this point.

“This is an important announcement not just for growth and sustainability but symbolically as our government backs the work we have done and the vision for the sport that we have.”

The backing also allows the Territory brand to remain visible after being left out of Australia’s national competition’s expansion process.

The MHL playing schedule is set to be released on November 25, at the upcoming season launch in Kuala Lumpur.

Territorians can expect their side to begin their Malaysian journey in early 2025, with their first game currently scheduled for February 5.

Originally published as Territory Stingers receive big funding boost from NT government