Aurora Energy Powering the Future of Hockey in Tasmania
Published Fri 08 May 2026
Hockey Tasmania’s partnership with Aurora Energy continues to deliver outstanding outcomes for the hockey community right across the state, with participation, coaching, umpiring and player development all benefiting from the collaboration.
Thanks to the support of Aurora Energy in making the program free for all participants, Hockey Tasmania has welcomed 505 participants into Hookin2Hockey programs across Hobart, Launceston, Devonport, Burnie, George Town and Smithton so far in 2026. It has provided more young Tasmanians than ever before with the opportunity to experience hockey in a fun, inclusive and accessible environment, helping grow participation numbers around the state. The program has seen such a strong uptake that facilities in the South have exceeded capacity, necessitating the use of grass pitches to house them all.
The partnership has also enabled significant investment in goalkeeper development. Former Hockeyroo and FIH Goalkeeper of the Year Rachel Lynch delivered specialist goalkeeper clinics in both Hobart and Launceston, with 20 participants attending in Hobart and 18 in Launceston. The opportunity for young Tasmanian goalkeepers to learn from one of Australia’s all-time greats was invaluable and it highlights the calibre of experiences being made possible through the partnership.
Importantly, the program is also creating sustainable local pathways. Experienced goalkeeper coach Mili Arrotea has been working closely with Kacee Ponting to upskill and support the delivery of goalkeeper sessions locally, ensuring Tasmanian keepers continue to benefit into the future.
The impact has also extended into coach education and development. During the FIH Pro League in February, Hockey Tasmania delivered an FIH Level 2 Coaching Course led by FIH Trainer Amy Ryan from Queensland. The course attracted 14 participants from across the hockey community, further strengthening the quality of coaching available throughout the state.
The partnership has also played a key role in strengthening the future of officiating, providing emerging umpires with greater opportunities for education, mentoring and on-field experience across the State.
In 2026, Hockey Tasmania established three umpiring academies across the State, all proudly supported by Aurora Energy. Designed for emerging umpires under the age of 18, the academies aim to develop the next generation of officials by providing education, mentoring and practical on-field experience as participants progress through their umpiring journeys.
The Hood Academy, based in the south of the State and proudly sponsored by Aurora Energy, has already completed all theory sessions with 15 participants. These developing umpires are now officiating matches under the guidance and mentorship of 12 experienced and dedicated umpires, helping build their confidence and capability in a supportive environment.
The Aurora Energy Northern Umpiring Academy has also successfully delivered all theory sessions to 13 participants. Participants have now moved into the practical phase of the program, where they are gaining valuable experience from 13 dedicated mentors committed to supporting their development.
Meanwhile, the Aurora Energy Northwest Umpiring Academy is currently calling for nominations and mentors ahead of its commencement later this month. The academy will run throughout the year, continuing to expand opportunities for aspiring umpires across the north-west region.
Aurora Energy also continues its valued support of the “Power Up Your Umpiring” program. Primarily aimed at umpires officiating in B Pool competitions, as well as junior umpires seeking additional guidance and support, the program provides practical learning opportunities to help participants build confidence, improve decision-making and further develop their umpiring skills. Through initiatives such as these, Hockey Tasmania and Aurora Energy are continuing to strengthen umpire development pathways and invest in the future of officiating across the State.
With participation numbers continuing to grow and development opportunities expanding statewide, the partnership between Hockey Tasmania and Aurora Energy is playing a key role in building a stronger future for hockey in Tasmania.
