Hockey Australia supports Victorian 2026 Commonwealth Games bid
Published Thu 17 Feb 2022
Hockey Australia has welcomed the announcement that Commonwealth Games Australia (CGA) and the Victorian Government have joined forces to enter exclusive negotiations with the Commonwealth Games Federation to host the 2026 Commonwealth Games.
Hockey Australia CEO David Pryles welcomed the announcement and said it would be a win-win for all parties involved and for sport in Australia.
“Australia has a proud record of hosting successful Commonwealth Games,” said Pryles.
“As a National Sporting Organisation and member of the CGA network we endorse any opportunity for our world class national hockey teams to compete on the international stage on our own doorstep.”
“Hockey Australia strongly promotes the wide ranging benefits of our sport, especially for people’s physical and mental health. Holding the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Victoria would bring this positive message even more to the forefront.”
“The news that these Commonwealth Games would be taken to all parts of Victoria is also hugely exciting for those associated with hockey and sport in general in these smaller towns and cities, particularly the next generation of Kookaburras and Hockeyroos.”
“A host of our best hockey talent heralds from regional centres and hockey is extremely popular outside of the capital cities.
“Furthermore, the prospect of hosting these Commonwealth Games would allow hockey is reemphasise itself as Australia’s most gender equal sport with a reputation of being family orientated and community focussed.”
“We look forward to following the progress of Victoria’s bid and supporting Commonwealth Games Australia in making this possibility a reality.”
Hockey Victoria CEO Andrew Skillern said on the announcement: “Having international hockey and the Commonwealth Games back in Victoria will provide our community with a real buzz and a much needed boost to the sport’s profile.”
Australia’s history in hockey at the Commonwealth Games boasts a plethora of success.
The Kookaburras have won every gold medal on offer since hockey was first introduced to the Games in 1998, while the Hockeyroos have medalled in every edition including four gold.
