Access All Abilities Hockey
6 September, 2024
The partnership between Bayley House and Bayside Hockey Club continues to thrive, bringing the community closer through our shared love of hockey!
Bayside Hockey Club is more than just a team—they are a family. With over 220 members and over 14 teams, they welcome players of all ages and skill levels, from competitive athletes to those who enjoy the social side of the game. And with regular community events and fun socials, there’s always something to look forward to!
As the largest hockey club in the Bayside council area, they are passionate about creating an inclusive, values-led culture that prioritises both community and fun. This has all contributed to making the Access All Abilities program such a success. The sense of community inclusion has not gone unnoticed with local MP, Zoe Daniel commenting on the program “Hockey has always been an inclusive sport, and the Access all Abilities program represents the very best of what this wonderful game offers to the community. Bayside Hockey is a wonderful example of a vibrant, inclusive, sports club that embraces diversity and participation as much as it does on field success. The Access All Abilities program enriches both the lives of those who participate in it, and the Bayside Hockey club as a whole”.
This year, the coaching team has been stellar, featuring Head Junior Coach Will Buckley, as well as Abu Bakar Mahmood, Vice Captain of the Pakistan National Team, and Akmal Hussain, goalkeeper for the Pakistani National Team. Their expertise has helped our members, from beginners to advanced players, sharpen their skills and elevate their game. This expertise has extended to the Access All Abilities program that runs each week with Bayley House where several clients are learning hockey skills.
In addition, Bayside Hockey are currently fundraising for accessible change rooms to further enhance inclusivity. Their commitment to the local community extends beyond the rink, as they have brought the joy of hockey to over 1,500 students through school programs, including Sandringham College.
Bayside Hockey Club have added an incredible community connection to Bayley House and a beautiful partnership that we hope continues for many years to come.