This initiative was introduced to assist clubs build their capacity and capability, and, at the same time, enable individuals to enhance their skills and knowledge as future leaders, and was warmly embraced.

The program, organised by Hockey Albury-Wodonga with assistance from Hockey Victoria and NSW Government sports capacity building funding, helped underwrite the program.

The targeted age group was 15 to 17-year-olds from five clubs, and they enjoyed an enlightening program which included how in a sports team, motivation and engagement of players is important in a safe and positive environment.

Sessions on sports physiology, leadership, mind fitness and how to develop an exercise program with input from a dietitian on nutrition were revealing and informative.

“We must invest in our young rising stars,” Hockey Albury-Wodonga president Bert Eastoe said.

“This investment in providing teenagers with skills to cope with change and become resilient in a complex world with often increasing demands on and off the field, will return dividends to the sport and the community.”

A full day undertaking of a Hockey Australia endorsed level one coaching course followed, with Doug Agar and Clarke Rossiter sharing experiences and covering topics in the online course.

Areas included how to engage with players, family and officials while overseeing the sport, as well as recognising the needs of minority groups and participants with special needs.

The response from presenters indicated they would support similar initiatives, as they were impressed by the program structure content and those that attended.

Member for Albury Greg Aplin was also impressed with the initiative and how it was presented.