Merry Christmas from the Pres.
On behalf of myself and my family I extend to all the hockey community in Geelong greetings of the Season.
This has again been a tumultuous year (even unprecedented??!!) for us all. I have separately thanked Executive members past, continuing and new. It has certainly been a trial to keep our sport running to the best of its ability.
It is a credit to all involved that we have managed that with good numbers of players. In fact better currently than 2019 when we last got a full season in.
The Season Ahead
There is much still to do in 2022.
I am sure we are up to the challenge which includes:
- resurfacing of pitch 1 (a major investment)
- continued support for Golden Plains Hockey Club as they re-establish ( we can’t afford to let Clubs go)
- possible facility improvements at Stead Park including change room, toilets and showers
- Events Management (including a Season Launch to present trophies and pennants and Senior Women’s Country Championship) and
- increasing membership through Junior recruitment in particular.
Funding News
This week we have had some mixed news. A grant we applied for to upgrade heating and provide cooling at Stead Park was not successful. A shame!
But on the same day I was advised that Viva Energy will be continuing (and in fact increasing) their sponsorship of junior recruiting. This is a major boost for this critical area.
Great Achievements Lie Ahead
So as you can see we have achieved much, but there is much more to do.
I encourage anyone who has specific skills that can help our sport to make themselves known. Even if you only help with one specific project we will be very pleased. Let me know if you can assist. I am always happy to talk about improvements to our sport.
So once again Merry Christmas, a happy and Safe New Year and an enthusiastic return to hockey in 2022.
Give me a call if you need to discuss.
Regards,
Peter Stuart
President, Geelong Hockey Association
