Taranaki Hockey: Stratford invites adults to have a go

The initiative was held in New Plymouth earlier this year. Photo/ Supplied.

Stratford is giving people the opportunity to take to the turf and play hockey.

Adult learn to play/ return to play, launched by Taranaki Hockey, invites adults who have not played before or who used to play, the chance to have a go in a friendly social setting, says executive officer Denise Hill.

"There are many people who played at school, loved it, but gave up either at secondary school or when they left school. Often they played on grass and have never experienced playing on artificial turf."

She says this is an opportunity to meet people, improve fitness and have fun in a non-threatening social environment.

"We have parents of players, especially representative players, who love the game but have not played. This could be because the opportunity has never arisen or because the traditional winter club season is played at the weekends and they have family commitments."

The first week of the initiative is a free coaching session covering the basics so people can give it a go, Denise says.

"If they enjoyed it, they can return for the following seven weeks at $5 per week. Games will be half field 7-a-side and teams will be formed each week with those who arrive. All of the sticks are provided and mouth guards are complementary."

The league will be run on Monday nights from 6.30–7.30pm from October 12 at the hockey turf by the Stratford TET multi-sports centre, stadium restaurant and bar. For more details contact Denise 0211909430 or register at www.taranakihockey.org.nz