Juniors in high spirits at Goldstix small-side fest

Unexpected sunny and bright conditions on Sunday saw Busselton Hockey Association’s Goldstix carnival take place with numerous young athletes competing in high spirits.

The carnival, only in its second year, boasted over 200 hockey players with 25 teams playing a total of more than 65 games.

The well tackled matches consisted of small teams playing on half fields to ensure every hockey fanatic had the chance to get their stick to a ball and have multiple matches throughout the day.

Director junior hockey Kylie Callow said she was proud of the junior committee for supporting HockeyWA in its newly formed Goldstix initiative.

“I’m very pleased that the junior athletes were able to adopt the small sided games concept and made the most of the day.”

The young athletes, who defended and attacked with ferociousness, ranged from pre-primary to year six students with a stand out moment seen when Warren hockey players competed on the turf for the first time.

The carnival was organised by Hockey WA’s Marc Pike and South West development officer Katie Rodgers who assisted in game nominations, coordinating fixtures and providing assistance during the day.

Ms Callow reported the Carnival as a success with all athletes satisfied and ready for bed at the end of the excitement.