Support for Hockey New England to continue its mentoring program for current and aspiring local hockey umpires with Olivia Clarke, Northern Tablelands MP Adam Marshall, Molly Deiderick and Erin Porter.
Wednesday, 5 May 2021
THE State Government has provided some last-minute assistance to Hockey New England as it finalises plans for this month’s Under 15s Boys State Championships, with Northern Tablelands MP Adam Marshall today announcing $6,920 to support the hire marquees and providing ongoing junior umpire development.
Mr Marshall said $5,000 would allow the association to provide visiting teams with an already erected marquee, where they can base themselves over the tournament.
“Hockey New England has worked so hard to make the State Championships at the end of May a welcoming experience for players and supports,” Mr Marshall said.
“While match schedules and team lists can be managed throughout the week-long event, the one thing beyond the control of organisations is Armidale’s notorious winter weather.
“To offset the potential for four seasons in one day, this grant will cover the cost of hiring and setting-up a number of marquees near the hockey fields at SportUNE, to provide shelter and shade for players from the many away teams.
“The carnival is expected to inject a whopping $1.5 million into the local economy, providing a huge financial boost to local businesses which have faced significant hardships with drought, fire and COVID 19.”
Mr Marshall said the remainder of the funding, $1,920, would help Hockey New England continue to mentor and train the next generation of umpires.
“To encourage more players in the competition to umpire, this project will provide incentives to older, junior umpires to mentor their newer and less confident colleagues,” he said.
“Through the mentors, training umpires will be provided meaningful feedback following their games, which will enhance their knowledge, their skills and confidence.
“Training umpires will also be provided with uniforms and necessary equipment such as whistles, cards and accreditation.”
Hockey New England Junior Convenor Peta Deiderick said the grants would support both the fabulous local hockey community and Armidale region following such a hard period.
“This funding will lift the financial burden of hiring marquees for the Under 15’s Boys State Championships off the shoulders of Hockey New England,” Mrs Deiderick said.
“This carnival alone will bring over 1,000 players along with their families to boost Armidale’s economy.
“The umpire grant enable us to support our junior officials with training, mentoring and accreditation; without them the game doesn’t happen so we need to provide that support and structure to ensure they continue umpiring into seniors and representative levels.
“This has been extremely successful in past years with several junior umpires gaining State selection and accreditation at a higher level.
“The project will continue to encourage junior members to get involved with their local community association and become confident leaders on and off the field, delivering many personal and community benefits.”