$800,000 secured to upgrade Coffs Coast Hockey Centre

The Coffs Coast Hockey Association secures $800,000 from the NSW Government to upgrade the Coffs Coast Hockey Centre.

The Hockey Centre has been closed since July due to damage to the playing surface.

The funding is being provided under the NSW Government’s Level the Playing Field Program which has invested more than $28 million in sports facilities across NSW to make them more inclusive for women and girls.

Coffs Coast Hockey Association and City of Coffs Harbour Council will co-fund the project which provides certainty to the Association’s more than 450 members, including over 300 female players.

NSW Minister for Sport Steve Kamper noted “by providing safer, more comfortable and more inclusive facilities, the NSW Government is breaking down the barriers that have traditionally prevented many women from participating in sport.

“The NSW Government is pleased to be able to provide this funding to Coffs Coast Hockey Association to ensure the entire region’s female players can play at a safe and inclusive facility.”

President of Hockey Coffs Coast Dean Herbert added “I extend my heartfelt gratitude to the NSW Government and our local members for their invaluable support. It has been a long and challenging journey, but we are here, making progress for our sport and our community.

“Our members have shown incredible resilience during the tough period of the field closure earlier this year.

“Now, we’re thrilled to turn the page and look forward to resuming play, welcoming both familiar and new faces to the field in the coming years.”

Hockey NSW Chief Executive Matt Bulkeley enthused "we are thrilled to receive the news that the NSW Government, Coffs Council and Hockey Coffs Coast have committed to funding the critical pitch replacement work at the Coffs Hockey Centre.

“Hockey NSW look forward to utilising this updated venue in the near future for development programs such as Centre of Development, Hookin2Hockey and other come and try days to support the participation and growth of Hockey in the region."

Further information on the Level the Playing Field Program.

Image. Credit: Hockey Coffs Coast