Kate Pulbrook, Hockey NSW’s regional coaching coordinator, organised the day and was heavily involved last Friday, helping run matches while also passing on helpful tips and hints to the players from Dubbo College’s Delroy and South campuses, Narromine High, Wellington High and Molong Central School.

With hockey’s profile in Dubbo somewhat diminished this year with no sides competing in the central west’s Premier League Hockey (PLH) competition, Dubbo Hockey Association’s Vanessa Brown was delighted to see so many players running around Pioneer Park.

“It’s a bit of fun and it gets kids involved with it,” she said.

“It brings hockey back to the front. There’s so many sports to choose from but we’ve got Kate from Hockey NSW running it and it makes it a fun day but it also get kids involved.”

There was plenty of skill shown on the field throughout the day but Brown said it wasn’t all about results.

Promoting the sport was a big part of it while it was also an opportunity for Pulbrook to help young players develop their game.

“Kate being here she can pick up obviously on the kids who are involved in hockey so she’s not only helping those who are new to the game and have never played before, but also giving the others tips on their own games so there’s the two benefits,” Brown said.

The gala day was another success in junior hockey at Dubbo.

Countless players have made western, country and state teams in recent years and that shows no sign of slowing.

Players as young as under 13s have made NSW sides this season and Brown said having events like the high schools carnival will only help create more talent in Dubbo and the wider western region.

“They’re starting to come through and get recognised and going on to make state teams,” she said of young, local players.

“And locally, we’re now just three weeks away from finals so everyone is brushing up on their skills.”