Young Hockey Stars Shine at 2026 Regional Challenge in Illawarra

The Illawarra came alive as hundreds of young hockey players from across New South Wales gathered for the three-day Regional Challenge, the grand finale of the of Centre of Development (COD) program. Held from 27 February to 1 March at the Illawarra Hockey Centre in Unanderra, the event brought together boys and girls aged 10–14 for a fun, development-focused carnival.

The Regional Challenge is the culmination of the COD program, NSW’s largest annual participation initiative for young hockey players. Across three days, participants showcased the skills they’ve developed throughout the season in a games-based, non-competitive environment, while also enjoying a range of off-field activities and experiences.

The first day brought some challenges, with rain threatening the schedule, followed by wind and just a little sunshine for the remainder of the carnival. Despite the weather, the energy on the field was unstoppable, with players participating in skill sessions, matches, and workshops designed to inspire the next generation of hockey talent.

Special guests included Hockeyroos goalkeeper Zoe Newman, the Lord Mayor of the City of Wollongong, Councillor Tania Brown, and elite goalkeepers Tegan Neowhouse, Australia Indoor Hockey representative, and Dylan Simmons, NSW Pride Men’s goalkeeper. Community coaches also benefited from a clinic led by NSW Pride Men’s Head Coach Kieran Govers and a Game Plan workshop hosted by Hockey Australia.

A major highlight of the event was the debut of Indoor Hockey at Regional Challenge. To showcase this exciting variation of the sport, an elite indoor exhibition match featured Australian Indoor stars Tegan Neowhouse and Brooke Welsh, alongside Dylan Simmons and other state athletes, including Sydney-based Regional Leads Fletcher Norris and Koby Johnstone.

Beyond the hockey action, the carnival offered plenty of entertainment for participants and families, including NSW Pride activations, free giveaways, and scavenger hunts, ensuring a memorable experience both on and off the field.

Hockey NSW would like to extend a special thank you to Destination Wollongong, New Balance, and the Illawarra Hockey Centre for their support in making this event possible.

The 2026 Regional Challenge was not only a celebration of hockey skill and development but also a chance for young players to make new friends, experience elite hockey firsthand, and enjoy all the beauty and vibrancy the Illawarra has to offer.