Addendum to the Hockey NSW State Team Selection Policy

Hockey NSW 2020/21 State Under 15, 18, 21 Field Squads and Team Selection Process 

Due to the extenuating circumstances surrounding COVID-19 and the recent bushfires across the State, Hockey NSW is providing the following addendum to their field squad selection processes.

In these very difficult times, Hockey NSW has attempted, through this Addendum, to provide, as best it can, a fair and, as far as possible, a transparent process of selection for 2020/21 without, at the same time, imposing a significant financial burden on hockey families that would occur should selection events or trials be held.

The priority for Hockey New South Wales will be performance in local competitions. 

Significantly, because no State and National Championships have been held this year, an athlete’s association will be able to recommend to a Selection Panel the inclusion of that athlete in a squad and the size of the squads for 2020/21 will be increased, as outlined in the addendum.

This addendum modifies, where relevant, the State Team Selection Policy (see clauses 4, 5, 6, 7, 8 and 9). It is to be read in conjunction with that policy.

Click here to view the addendum. 

For your information, Hockey NSW has complied a list of Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ's) to assist with understanding the above addendum. 

Who can nominate an athlete for a state squad?

Your local Regional Coaching Coordinator (RCC), an Association Representative (or someone approved by your Association Committee) and/or a Hockey NSW endorsed coach for 2020/2021.

How does the Association nominate athletes?

Nominations can be in any form such as email or a phone call. Howver, our preferred method of nomination is by completing the nomination link supplied to RCC’s, Association Representatives and Hockey NSW endorsed coaches.

How can an Association decide who to nominate?

Hockey NSW will allow Associations to decide on which process they wish to use to identify athletes. Associations may decide to hold a trial or they can nominate an Association Representative to view competition games and nominate athletes via performance in games.

Do I have to be registered in 2020 to be nominated and selected for the 2021 Field Squads? 

Yes, all athletes nominated will only be considered if they are a registered member of Hockey NSW.

How will selectors complete the selection process?

Selectors will hold virtual meetings to discuss selections. They will assess athletes based on information provided by the nominator and any additional knowledge of the athlete from the previous 12 months of athlete performances.

Is there a way I can send a video for selectors to view me play?

Athletes can self-promote via the SportsCard website by updating their profile and any results or video. If you are not a SportsCard member you can register via the following link: https://www.yoursportscard.com/ 

What skills will I be judged on when selecting the squads? 

The Hockey NSW State Team Selection Policy has the following as its selection criteria: Physical Capacities, Tactical Ability, Potential to Improve, Competitive Ability, Attitude, Team/Squad Orientation and Communication.  

What if I am not playing in my preferred position in my local competition?
Athletes will be assessed on their hockey ability regardless of playing position. It can be a positive factor if an athlete can play in multiple playing positions. When nominating an athlete, Associations, HNSW endorsed coaches or RCC's have the opportunity to provide up to two (2) playing position as suitable for the athlete they are nominating.

Can I ask someone to find out if I have been nominated for a squad?

No, there is a level of confidentiality involved in selections, so RCC’s, Association Representatives and Hockey NSW endorsed coaches can not discuss selections. 

Can an athlete be nominated more than once?
Athlete may be nominated more than once as the nomination process is confidential and athletes can be nominated by more than one of the nominating sources i.e two different Associations if an athlete plays in different competions, an Association and RCC etc. 

When will the NSW Under 13 and Hockey One NSW Pride Field Squads be selected?

As the National events for Under 13 and NSW Pride are schedule for late in 2021, these squads will be identified as they would be in a normal year at the respective NSW Championships. These event dates have not been finalised or released.

What is the nomination cut-off date & when will the squads be announced?

Who can I contact if I have further enquiries not addressed above?

Please email Hockey NSW Pathway Manager Richard Willis at richard.w@hockeynsw.com.au or contact your local Regional Coaching Coordinator.