With the cancellation of Indoor State Championships and the traditional build-up events, we are seeking to stage a local program in our area.

This initiative will replace the traditional indoor representative program in 2020.

Expressions of interest must be completed by 25th September

The format will include:

• 5-6 weeks of indoor training/matches (60-90 minutes per week)
• Commencing Sunday 18^th October
• Finishing around Sunday 22^nd November
• Assistance from association coaches
• An indicative cost will be around $100-150 per player depending on the total of registered players.

In addition, some additional events will be available:

• Separate workshops staged in the school holidays
• If restrictions allow, we will play a tournament at the conclusion of the development program.

Where will it be held?

There are three venue, the allocation of age groups and times are TBC:

• Abbotsleigh School, Wahroonga (Sunday 12pm-8pm)
• Marie Bashir Sports Centre, Mosman (Sunday 10am-5pm)
• Ryde Aquatic Centre, North Ryde (Sunday 7.30am-10.30am)

Who is running the program?

It is a combined venture between NSBHA and NWSHA, with the understanding that our players have been playing with and against each other in local competitions since the resumption of hockey in June. The younger players will also be participating together at Centre of Development from the start of term 4.

­

What are the objectives of the program?

The focus of the indoor development program will be to create some training and playing opportunities of a high standard, which will help the development and advancement of players who are focussed on indoor hockey. ­

Who can/should participate?

The program will be open to all NSBHA and NWSHA players. The program will cater to all abilities, including field players new to indoor. Novice hockey players are encouraged to seek experience through SIHA club competitions.

Are there still representative teams and will they be graded?

No, the teams will not be selected on any criteria except to make them even and ensure our program is productive and evenly contested. Participants from both associations will be combined, in the same manner as COD, into teams. We may consider splitting any age group into two grades, to ensure the standard is even among the group.

Will there be any tournaments?

If COVID restrictions allow we will stage a tournament in November, but there will be no clarity on whether this will be permitted until October. It is possible that association teams will be formed to contest any event, or the players can remain in their groups from the Indoor Development Program.

What COVID safety precautions are in place?

The program will be run subject to the COVID safety plan that is in place for all Sydney indoor venues:

• DO NOT attend if you are ill
• Attendance registers must be completed
• Only 20 people may occupy a venue
• No spectators are currently permitted
• No sharing of equipment