Hockey NSW announces a new direction in the pathway to continue the journey towards 2032
Published Mon 04 Sep 2023
In March 2023, Hockey NSW (HNSW) launched its fresh strategic approach for the sport. This was accompanied by the rollout of a comprehensive plan, with the central aim of developing a clear pathway within NSW that is committed to holistic athlete development. The approach underscores a strong emphasis on growth and personal advancement. Our aim is to ensure that HNSW continues to be a pipeline for the Hockeyroos and Kookaburras whilst assisting all players to reach their potential across the state.
As part of this shift, a position was established – Director of Hockey and Performance. Brent Livermore was appointed to this role, entrusted with the responsibility of guiding the evolution of the pathway, working with Jade Close, Assistant Pathway Manager, and the rest of the team.
“After the launch of the strategy in March 2023, the team have been working hard to bring the vision to life. We are committed to ensuring NSW Hockey is a leader in the pathway and continues to play its role in developing future Hockeyroos and Kookaburras, while providing holistic development and assisting people to reach their potential through hockey. I am confident that the new approach outlined today we will reach this objective, and we look forward to working with partners and the hockey community to bring this to life”. – Emma Highwood, CEO, Hockey NSW
“It is a well needed shift in the pathway to engage and align with all members and stakeholders in building the foundations required to implement a sustainable performance pathway across NSW. With the aim to identify talent and provide a holistic personal development for all involved -athletes, coaches, parents and officials.” – Brent Livermore, Director of Hockey and Performance, Hockey NSW
We are pleased to announce today our key focus across Pathway and Performance.
Key Recommendations for Excellence:
- Talent Identification: Athlete development program, athlete profile and assessment, IDP, performance assessment and feedback
- Partnerships and Alignment: HNSW in collaboration/partnership with NSWIS, HA, and new partnership with Regional Sports Academies across the state.
- Regional competitions: Local region hub competitions, Hockey 5s carnivals along with regional hub camps
- State Representative Teams: Reviewed selection timing and process, selection criteria, preparation phase
- Launch of HNSW Future academies: Development of a new hockey curriculum which will guide the development of players across the state.
The HNSW Futures Academy is set to collaborate with Regional Academies throughout the state, providing comprehensive performance support. Spanning a duration of 20-30 weeks, the program will encompass athletes across age groups of 14s, 16s, 18s and 21s. With a cohort of 460 athletes, supported by a dedicated team of 40 to 60 coaches and performance experts, the program emphasises a holistic approach to development.
This approach involves three weekly sessions, comprising 2 hours of technical and tactical training, 1 hour performance workshops, and another hour dedicated to strength and conditioning/functional movement. The curriculum places a premium on performance enhancement and physical literacy. Importantly, the approach will vary between Regional and Metro areas, adapting to the unique contexts of each.
It is important to note that the AAP program will cease to exist, with U18’s moving to the HNSW Future Academy.
The Launch
The HNSW Futures Academy will be launched on the 4th of October at the Festival of Hockey in the lead up to the Hockey One Season.
For more information on the HNSW Futures Academy and its transformative impact on the NSW hockey community, please see the following links:
Or contact:
Brent Livermore
