5 Queenslanders attend the Hockey Australia FIH Academy

Hockey Australia have revised their approach to the coaching and officiating accreditation frameworks, integrating the FIH Academy, and as such 25 national representatives gathered in Melbourne from 16–19 October to begin developing the initial workforce for the new education model. 

Led by two highly respected FIH Master Trainers, Michel Kinnen and Ben Owers, the course marked the first major step in aligning Australia’s accreditation systems with international standards. The program featured four Trainee Trainer candidates and 21 Educator candidates, with the additional opportunity to pilot a Level 2 Coaching Course (L2C) — a significant milestone in the professional growth pathway for coaches across the country.

Hockey Queensland was strongly represented, with Amy Ryan and Kerry Liebenberg participating as Trainee Trainers, and Jordyn Wilson, Tinesha Carey, and Sonya Fisher taking part as Educator participants.

Through this collaborative effort with Hockey Australia and the FIH Academy, Hockey Queensland is committed to elevating standards, enhancing opportunities, and empowering the next generation of hockey leaders.