Hockey Marlborough is excited to announce the launch of the new in-school hockey coaching programme called “Pick up Sticks”

Pick up Sticks is designed for every student from Year 1 – 8, and we are pleased to be able to offer the first 30 minute session in Term 1 of 2024, FREE  to every class within your school!  Following on from this initial offer there is an option to take on a further two sessions to develop those players that are interested in learning more or taking up the sport of hockey for the winter season.  The extra sessions cost to the school is $xxx, which includes the accredited coaching, equipment, and ???

With the opportunity to go in the draw to win a Go Hockey equipment package for your school.


Accredited SPIRE coach Matt Hair will deliver the ‘Pick Up Sticks’ programme.  Matt played for Marlborough in the Southern Hockey League and the Marlborough team that qualified for and played in New Zealand Hockey's National First Division. He was a New Zealand Junior Black Stick and was selected in the New Zealand men’s training squad before overseas commitments changed his pathway.  He has over 25 years of professional and international coaching experience.


Hockey, is one of the most widely played Olympic sports in the world, it is a sport for life and can be played across the widest age range. It is gender-even, giving equal opportunity for girls and boys to participate, enjoy and achieve.


Matt will deliver quality sessions that are at a level commensurate with the students ability.  Aimed to develop each childs basic fundamental skills whilst introducing the sports specific skills in an exciting & enjoyable environment. Whilst upskilling the hockey knowledge, participation, and capability of your school teams.



If your school would like to take up the initial free in-school opportunity for all students, please complete the registration of interest form and return to [email protected] before Friday 26th January 2024.