THE winter hibernation forced on players through COVID-19's on-again off-again winter lockdowns is one of the motivations behind a summer hockey competition.
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And Orange Hockey Incorporated president Daryl Kennewell would also like to see people come and try the game and with that in mind, OHI is calling for nominations for its twilight competition to kick off next week.
"The main target is to bring new people to the sport, come and try it out in a cheaper alternative [than the winter season] and have a bit a fun," Kennewell said.
He added players who had drifted away from the sport might also be interested in picking up their sticks again.
Vice president said Adam Hurford is hoping players who missed out this year when the Orange winter season was cut short on July 23 will make up for lost hockey by nominating for the new-look comp.
The main target is to bring new people to the sport, come and try it out in a cheaper alternative and have a bit a fun
- Daryl Kennewell
"I can remember the lockdown was starting at 5pm that night and I played in that last game that finished just before that, it was pretty frustrating," he said referring to the season being cut short.
"Especially after we missed most of 2020."
The summer competition will feature the normal 11 players on field but they can be mixed with a maximum of five males at any one time.
Goalkeepers are optional, teams can nominate a kicking back instead, while hitting the ball is off limits with only slaps and pushes allowed.
Senior games will be played on Friday nights in 25 minute halves.
A junior competition, to be played on Thursday nights, is also being offered with players to nominate individually.
"I think it will be a good thing, we just need players to support it," Hurford said.
Players can nominate as a team with president Daryl Kennwell while individuals can also nominate and they will be placed in a team.
Kennewell said there were hockey sticks available but players would need to provide their own mouthguards and shinpads.
Barbecue facilities are also available.
OHI plans to start competitions on November 4 and 5 and if numbers allow, form two grades in the seniors.
Kennewell said the draw would also be fluid to accommodate late nominations.
To nominate, go to www.orangehockeyassoc.com.au and follow the link.
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