The Gloucester Hockey Association has nine players confirmed so far and are hopeful they will get the 13 players needed for a viable team in this year’s competition.

“We’ve had a few women join the indoor competition and from there we have attracted a renewed interest for Gloucester to have a women’s team for the upcoming season,” association treasurer, Dave Keen said.

Young and up coming players, Jasmine Keen and Bethany Hester are excited about the prospect of being involved in representing Gloucester in the Manning competition.

“It’s good that we’ve finally got a women’s hockey team," Jasmine smiled.

Jasmine and Bethany started playing in the junior competition on the field at Cook Park last year.

Both have continued to develop their skills during the indoor competition currently being held at the Gloucester Recreation Centre.

Dave said the club has had an increased interest in the sport from the community off the back of the success of the last year’s men’s premiership win.

“We almost have enough players for a second men’s team.

“We’re only a few off at the moment,” Dave said.

There has also been a growing interest in the junior competition, which has been strongly supported by former player, Ollie Rinkin.

Ollie has been running the Primary Schools Sports Association (PSSA) competitions within the local schools, trying to increase the junior interest in the sport.

He is also involved in training the juniors during both the indoor and field seasons.

For the women’s team, Dave said they are still looking for a goalie, as well as additional players, experienced or not.

Players must turn 15 years old by October this year in order to be eligible to play, however there is no top age limit and so far the eldest player to signed up is 65. 

“Anyone interested in testing out their skills or getting involved can come by the rec centre Tuesday afternoons, from 4pm until 7pm,” Dave said. Competition starts at the end of March.