New Zealand had an outstanding result to their FIH Youth Challenge 2010. In total they achieved involvement from 17 Associations, 8576 “All in the Game” participants, 135 Colouring competition entries and 15 Youth leader nominations.
Across the country youth aged between 5-18 years participated in the program which included
· Youth hockey games in all 32 Associations, throughout the country during 15-16th May
· Youth Leader Certificates Nominations
· Colouring Competition (5 – 9 yrs)
· Special “All in the Game” day for juniors (eg.”FunSticks” pilot programme in Tauranga )
· Youth activities associated with Black Sticks vs India Test Series 15-16 May
· Hockey in the media
The aim of the event was to promote the FIH theme “All in the Game”, to encourage Youth to participate and Hockey Associations to promote youth hockey activities in their community through media, websites and special promotions.
The colouring competition was well received once again, with numerous entries from throughout the country with the youngest entry from a 2 year old. Associations utilised the FIH Youth Leadership nominations to recognise the great contribution made by 15 -19 year olds in there hockey communities. There were numerous school visits made to promote hockey by the Regional Development Managers.
Manawatu Hockey ran a promotion alongside the Black Sticks women’s tests against India (15-16th May) and set up autograph sessions at half and fulltime. This was very well received by the Youth if Manawatu.
Tauranga Hockey launched the trial of Hockey New Zealand’s new under 6 year olds fundamental skills hockey programme ultilising secondary school students as coaches. The day was very successful with 65 children, a massive number of parents/grandparents and 14 coaches really enjoying the new programme.
A spectacular effort by all involved.
