OHA Claims SPEAK UP! Stay ChatTY Cup

OHA has claimed the 2026 SPEAK UP! Stay ChatTY Cup following an entertaining pair of Premier League matches against Canterbury at the Aurora Energy Tasmanian Hockey Centre.

The annual event brought the two clubs together to promote positive mental health and suicide prevention, while encouraging members of the hockey community to check in with one another and have important conversations.

Canterbury produced one of its best performances of the Women’s Premier League season to earn a thrilling 3–3 draw and keep the Cup in the balance heading into the men’s match.

OHA appeared on course for victory after goals from Zayna Jackson, Julia Gunn and Madeline Nogajski established a 3–1 lead midway through the third quarter, with Nika van Paridon scoring for the Lions. However, the Lions refused to surrender, with Sadie Rogers pulling one back late in the term.

With just two minutes remaining, Prue Dougan showed slick stickhandling at the back post before providing the finish that secured Canterbury a potentially crucial point in its pursuit of a finals berth.

With the aggregate score locked at 3–3, the destination of the Cup came down to the men’s encounter.

OHA made a flying start, with a stunning opening goal from Joseph Murphy handing the Ships the lead before Matthew Murphy doubled the advantage less than a minute later. George Kitchener responded for Canterbury, but OHA held firm to secure a 2–1 victory and claim the Cup 5–4 on aggregate.

The win also delivered three valuable points for the Ships, moving them within two points of the top four with four rounds remaining.

Both clubs supported the occasion by hosting a fundraising barbecue, which raised more than $500 for SPEAK UP! Stay ChatTY.

Following the men’s match, special medals were presented to four players who exemplified courage and resilience, skill and sportsmanship throughout the day. Josh Foulston and Georgie Carter received the honours for OHA, while Sadie Rogers and Manu Bates were recognised for Canterbury.

Hockey Tasmania thanks everyone who volunteered their time to assist with the barbecue and help organise the event, along with all those who supported the fundraiser.

SPEAK UP! Stay ChatTY promotes positive mental health and suicide prevention by encouraging people to speak openly about how they are feeling, check in with those around them and remember that it is okay to ask for help.