For over thirty years, Mackay Hockey Association and Mackay School Hockey have welcomed young people from Central and North Queensland to participate in a very special carnival, our u11 carnival. For many it is the first step in their representative career, for others, a fabulous weekend of sport, friendship and fun.
In the first weekend in August, Mackay welcomes u11 athletes from Gladstone to Cairns for a weekend of hockey fun. The children’s games commence at midday on Saturday and finish in the early afternoon on Sunday. We host up to 30 teams of boys and girls who compete in shortened games throughout the two-day competition. The children get to enjoy up to six games over the weekend. The Harney Street Fields are full of families enjoying the Mackay hospitality and great sportsmanship, and it is not unusual to see children from a range of centres playing tag or soccer between their “official” games.
However, it is not just players and their families who have a wonderful weekend of development, our junior officials get to hone their skills as umpires and technical officials. For many their first foray into representative sport and the first step in what may be an international career.
Mackay, as the host centre boasts up to eight local teams, with volunteer coaches and managers ensuring that the children are ready for competition. The carnival is open to children aged under 11 registered with Mackay Hockey. Unlike many representative carnivals, participation is not limited to experienced players with a demonstrated skill set. All children are encouraged to participate and enjoy their weekend. This carnival exposes children to the fun of sports, and engenders positive sportsmanship and social interaction.
