For the first time regional Victoria will host the JSC event, with Greater Shepparton to host the boys’ competition from Thursday 1 July to Sunday 4 July.
Greater Shepparton City Council Mayor Councillor Kim O’Keeffe said this was a huge show of support for the regional hockey community.
“It is a wonderful opportunity for Greater Shepparton to be able to host a high-profile event in our region and we thank Hockey Victoria for their hard work and dedication to delivering hockey in this very competitive and challenging environment,” Cr Kim O’Keeffe said.
“We look forward to partnering with Hockey Victoria and the Goulburn Valley Hockey Association to deliver a first class event for all our visitors and providing opportunities for our talented local hockey players.
“Without the investment into the $21 million redevelopment of the Shepparton Sports City Precinct which included substantial upgrades to the Regional Hockey Complex, our region would not be in a position to host amazing events such as this, which brings much needed economic stimulus to the region and supports our local visitor economy industries which have been highly impacted with COVID-19 restrictions.
“The event will come at a great time for our visitor economy during the winter school holidays, running over four days providing a big economic boost to our accommodation, hospitality, entertainment, retail and tourism attraction sectors.”
Sash Herceg Chief Operating Officer Hockey Victoria said they were thrilled the further easing of restrictions could allow delivery of the JSC events in Bendigo and Shepparton.
“It is a relief for our players and their families, coaches, officials and the local councils and hockey associations that the events can go ahead. The event will comply with COVID-19 safe directions to minimise any risk to the participants and the local community,” Herceg said.
The event will be played over four days.
* Note: As of date of publish, the event was closed to spectators. Conditions since changed and the event will be welcoming spectators at the Hockey Victoria Junior State Championships.
