By JOHN VAN KLAVEREN
NEWTOWN hosts Victoria’s 2014 Community Sporting Club of the Year.
Newtown Hockey Club claimed the prestigious State Government award from competition across Victoria.
The award capped off a triumphant season in which the club won numerous senior and junior premierships.
President Claire Barnes said the award recognised the club’s efforts at junior level and in encouraging new players.
“We started a Saturday afternoon social program at King Lloyd Reserve for all ages and skill levels and that has really taken off,” Ms Barnes said.
“It’s only our second year and the numbers are increasing all the time. We want to keep it going into summer but with crIcket starting up we need to find another venue.
“That way we can expand the Saturday social program and cater for people from different cultural backgrounds and people with disabilities, for instance.”
Ms Barnes said the program was ideal for anyone hesitant about the commitment of joining a regular team.
“We get a lot of parents of juniors having a go or people who played years ago coming back into it.”
Victoria’s biggest regional hockey club has 292 playing members.
Hockey Victoria chief Andrew Skillern said the club had worked hard to offer community access to hockey.
“What makes Newtown City so unique is its continued work with the local community reducing travel and ensuring the game remains attractive and affordable.
“Initiatives like the Saturday social are the future for our game in terms of attracting new participants into our sport.”
