Work commences on pitch upgrade at Sydney Olympic Park Hockey Centre

November 5, 2018

A $1.1 million upgrade is underway at the Sydney Olympic Park Hockey Centre, with the playing surface of the Olympic hockey pitch being replaced ahead of a series of international matches in early 2019.

The project involves the installation of a new ‘global elite’ rated playing surface - the highest level of International Hockey Federation (FIH) certification possible - capable of hosting all levels of competition, from international events through to local games and training.

The pitch is expected to be closed until January 2019 to enable the works, which will include the removal of the existing infield sprinkler pits and re-grading of the field base, before the installation of new supporting shock pads and playing surface.

Sydney Olympic Park Authority Chief Executive, Charles Moore explains “this is the first time the Olympic Hockey Pitch has been replaced in a decade and the result will be the latest and most sophisticated hockey surface in Australia.

“The Hockey Centre is a wonderful legacy of the Olympic Games with a proud history of hosting elite competition and this upgrade will ensure it remains the premier venue in the country.”

One of the first tests for the new surface will come in March 2019 when the Hockey Centre plays host to a series of international clashes as part of the Australian leg of the new FIH Pro League competition.

The Hockeyroos will play three matches against the USA, Argentina and New Zealand, and the Kookaburras will take on Spain, Argentina and New Zealand.

Pitch 2 at the Hockey Centre will continue to operate as normal during the current works and will be resurfaced at a later stage.

Polytan is undertaking the work, replacing the surface it installed at the venue before the Sydney 2000 Olympics.

For more information go to www.hockeycentre.com.au

19th June 2018 - Venues announced for inaugural FIH Pro League

23rd January 2018 - FIH confirms 10 Preferred Suppliers as part of Quality Program for Hockey Turf

15th November 2017 - Quayclean secures naming rights for Sydney Olympic Park Sports Centre

28th July 2017 - FIH publishes new standards for hockey turf and facilities

24th July 2017 - New all-weather tennis courts open at Sydney Olympic Park Tennis Centre

14th April 2017 - Global ‘One Turf Concept’ agreed by international football, hockey and rugby bodies

11th February 2016 - Queensland builder to redevelop Gold Coast Hockey Centre for 2018 Commonwealth Games

15th November 2015 - NSW Government backs rugby league centre of excellence at Sydney Olympic Park

22nd October 2015 - FIH launches new Quality Program for Hockey Turf

12th July 2014 - Polytan owner the Sport Group acquires Team Sports

28th May 2013 - International Hockey Federation launches new hockey pitch standards

30th July 2012 - Legacy of London Games can last two decades: Sydney Olympic Park Chief Executive

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