Although the second season of Hockey One has been postponed by another year, Goulburn hockey fans will still be able to watch top-tier players live in just over a month's time.
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Last held in 2016, Hockey ACT recently announced the return of the Capital Hockey Challenge to the National Hockey Centre, Lyneham, to be held January 22 to 26.
The event will play host to some of the nation's best men's and women's hockey talent when sixteen teams from ACT, NSW, SA and Victoria participate in four divisions; Open Men, Open Women, U21 Men and U21 Women. The Open division will feature the Canberra Chill, Adelaide Fire, Hockey Club Melbourne and the NSW Pride with their corresponding state sides participating in the U21 divisions (excluding SA).
In total, the event will provide 32 matches across the four days of competition which will culminate with finals to take place on Australia Day.
"We're very excited to be bringing premier, national-level hockey back to the Capital." Hockey ACT CEO, Rob Sheekey, said.
"Due to COVID-19, nearly all National Championship and open league events have been cancelled over the past two years. This event provides an opportunity for our elite sides to get their first taste of elite level hockey in nearly three years and showcase their wares with national selectors watching on. We are also incredibly excited to have the Canberra Chill back in front of a home crowd and give the local community who have supported the brand a chance to engage with the team and players."
Hockey ACT is also keen to reward its membership for their support of the game during the past two COVID-affected seasons with free entry for all spectators.
"These past two seasons have been very difficult, but our membership base has been incredible with their support and cooperation so this is a small way for us to show our appreciation of their efforts." Sheekey said.
Hockey ACT hopes the warmer January weather will bring with it renewed interest from the community, and strong crowds taking advantage of the opportunity for the public to check out what the sport has to offer.
Mr Sheekey continued: "Hockey ACT are excited for the event, and look forward to welcoming the Canberra community to the National Hockey Centre in January, for an action-packed week of hockey!"
Further details regarding players and draws will be announced in early January 2022.
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