The Victoria Park Xavier Hockey Club was established in 1987 following the merger of the Victoria Park Hockey Club (est. 1962) and the Xavier Hockey Club (est. 1980). We are a family based club of approximately 600 playing members, with a full range of Men’s and Women’s grades from juniors (with some Minkey – players from 4 years of age), to Premier 1 teams, through to veterans (the oldest current player is 78).
As a club, we aim to provide all members and associates with pathways and opportunities to fulfil their individual and collective goals in hockey, through the provision of high quality coaching and facilities, while offering opportunities for players of all levels and abilities to enjoy the sport of Hockey.
The sport of Hockey has changed considerably over the last 10 or so years to a point where the majority of Junior and Senior Hockey is now played on synthetic turf. The club approached the Town of Victoria Park seeking the development of a synthetic turf within the town, along with the provision of supporting grass fields at the same location.
The importance of having a single venue is to ensure the family nature of the club is maintained. Currently playing members are required to train and play at multiple venues across the metropolitan area – even for “home” fixtures. A single location will provide a venue for all members to develop and grow together as a sustainable club.
A Business Case was developed by the Town of Victoria Park to explore the feasibility of providing the club with a synthetic turf to help decision making process, this was based on findings from an earlier pre-feasibility study identifying Harold Rossiter Reserve as a suitable location. While the Council has acknowledged that the club requires a synthetic turf to remain competitive and sustainable, it is important to note that no decision has been made to build a facility, at any Oval or Reserve.
The club is continuing to work with Council to consider all options (preferably within the town) to identify a suitable location that will cater for the club’s needs.
As a club it is our vision to be recognised as an inclusive family based club, one which provides the best possible opportunities and facilities for all members, while supporting the local community.
Since 2014 we have hosted an annual Pink in the Park Weekend, raising tens of thousands of dollars and awareness of Breast Cancer through the Breast Cancer Network of Australia.
In our time at Fletcher Park we have created strong relationships with all user groups, including the Perth Cricket Club, community groups, neighbours, dog walkers, etc., while maintaining high quality facilities and grounds.
We hope similar relationships can be developed and maintained, regardless of location.
Ryan Willis
Club President
For more information including a quick poll via the Town of Victoria Park’s website, click here.
