I wish to thank you all for contributing to what I believe was a very successful 2025 season and finals series.
During the season we saw new players join us and Hockey Geelong recorded a 13% increase, the biggest in regional Victoria. This was due to your recruiting and retention of players by our clubs. Well done to all.
To have the Grand Finals over two Saturdays was a request from the Competition and Match committee which the executive endorsed. We would be interested in your reflection on that as planning for 2026 shall commence soon.
The finals series concluded with the under 16 and senior Grand Finals on Saturday September 6. I wish to sincerely thank all clubs, players, umpires and administrators for all they did that made the day so good. The weather was perfect and we witnessed some great hockey. Unfortunately there has to be a winner and a loser but overall each player and game was appreciated and approached in the right and respectful manner.
- I wish to thank Em Shand for her meticulous organization and tireless work to ensure all went smoothly. She is a real asset to our association.
- Also we should acknowledge the work of Nette in ensuring trophies, medallions etc were ordered, collected and presented to the worthy recipients. Thank you Nette.
- A huge acknowledgement of Matt Krusic-Golub and his work in balancing the needs of the clubs in a respectful way producing a fixture for all. I am sure the clubs would agree with me.
- To Pearce Frost, thank you for organising the umpires and it was pleasing to see young ones coming through under his tutelage.
- Terry Moore did a great job behind the microphone and we have booked him in for next year. He is expensive, but very good.
- The canteen was very busy over the past two Saturdays. On Saturday we took $4,600 in takings which is some sort of record. Nita has been tremendous all season and we thank her for her great cooking. Thank you all for supporting this vital part of our revenue source.
- To the canteen helpers in Ruby, Amy, Harry, Archer, Maddie, Ella, Greg, Russell and Jesse a huge thank you. Your assistance was much appreciated and you all worked like a team.
As we look back on a successful season there is much to look forward to.
We are looking for a person or group of people to lead summer hockey or there will not be any. If you are unable to help in this area then please reach out to members in your club.
Thank you for your work this season in clubland. As I have said we are all stronger if our local clubs are thriving.
Best wishes
Graeme Dent
