Australian hockey will feel the effects of a “groundbreaking” £197 million sports investment package leading up to LA 2028.
The Australian Sports Commission (ASC) announced a record investment funding package, which will see millions invested in 70 sports over the next 18 months, resulting in a 64% increase each year compared to the period leading up to the Paris Games.
This is the first time the ASC has allocated funding that stretches from the playground to the podium, building on the success of the sector-wide High Performance (Win Well) and Participation (Play Well) strategies.
Hockey Australia CEO David Pryles acknowledged the ASC and the significance of the funding for Australian hockey. It follows both teams exits before the medal rounds at Paris 2024.
He said: “The ASC’s investment package is a massive boost for hockey in Australia. The landmark funding allocation is vital for ensuring sustained excellence on the world stage which extends to LA 2028 and beyond to Brisbane 2032.
“The announcement reflects the ASC’s confidence in Hockey Australia’s “Win Well, Play Well” strategy, and we acknowledge the support of the Australian Government with this significant boost as we nurture talent in all facets of our High Performance pathways and begin preparations for LA 2028 and beyond.”
Minister for Sport Anika Wells added: “This is a record funding package for Australian sport, so they can take full advantage of the generational opportunity between now and Brisbane 2032.
“Our record $385 million investment in high performance sport over the next 18 months, which includes a doubling of investment in Para sport, will enable our athletes to win well on the road to Los Angeles while also encouraging more Australians to play sport.
“We are creating more opportunities for more athletes by increasing the number of sports we support from 54 to 68 summer Olympic and Paralympic programs.
“It’s important that our kids and community sporting champions experience the same level of opportunity and I welcome the Play Well funding goal to create a safe, fair and sustainable sport system that grows participation and nurtures tomorrow’s champions.”
