27/4/04
Western Australia has been successful in retaining the national High Performance Hockey Program for another four years, Sport and Recreation Minister Bob Kucera announced today.
Mr Kucera said Hockey Australia had considered bids from WA, New South Wales and Queensland and the Australian Institute of Sport in Canberra when it met in Sydney over the weekend.
“I am absolutely delighted that WA’s expertise in hockey has been recognised,” he said.
“When WA faced the possibility of losing its only high performance teams sports program, the State Government acted immediately to ensure a strong bid was put forward to keep it here.
“WA’s bid, prepared by WA Hockey, with support from Curtin University, the Department of Sport and Recreation and the Western Australian Institute of Sport, was impressive.
“This decision is great news for all Western Australians, but particularly the athletes, their families and the coaches.”
Mr Kucera said Australian Olympic hockey teams had been very successful since the program was moved to Perth 20 years ago, winning six Olympic medals.
“The men have won back-to-back Commonwealth gold medals and 19 Champions Trophy medals,” he said.
“The women have won nine Champion’s Trophy medals.
“With the program here for another four years, I am confident the team will continue to succeed.
“Hockey Australia can be assured that WA will continue to support the program to world’s best standard.”
Minister's office - 9213 7000
