Hockey – Four Nations Coming to Darwin!

The NT Government today announced a funding grant of almost $40 000 to help bring the Four Nations Hockey Tournament to Darwin later this month.

Sports Minister Matthew Bonson announced the grant, saying that it will assist the Northern Territory Hockey and Hockey Australia with the staging of the popular event.

“Territorians love their sport, and I am thrilled to announce today NT Government funding of almost $40 000 to bring this elite hockey tournament to the Top End,’ Mr Bonson said.

“This is the first time Four Nations will be held in Darwin, so I encourage all Territorians to get down to Marrara to watch the action and support the teams.”

Tournament participants are Australia, India, Korea and China.

“Australia, Korea and China have all qualified for the Olympics, and see this as an important lead up tournament to Beijing,” Mr Bonson said. “So much so that they have asked other tournaments around the world to reschedule so the Darwin leg can proceed.”

Mr Bonson said as around 140 interstate and international visitors will travel to Darwin to participate in the tournament.

“This is good news for sports fans, the tourist sector and a great boost to our economy,” he said.

NT Hockey Executive Officer Michael Lloyd said this was the first internationally recognised hockey tournament to come to Darwin.

“It is fantastic to see an international hockey tournament come to Darwin which will be a boost to local players and supporters alike,” he said.

The Tournament will be held between April 30 and May 04. Community coaching clinics will also be held throughout the Tournament.

For media enquiries please contact Maria Billias 0401 119 746.