Hockey SA secures pitch and stadium upgrades
Published Fri 04 Mar 2022
Earlier this week the Minister for Recreation, Sport and Racing, The Hon Corey Wingard MP, confirmed funding for pitch and stadium upgrades at Mate Stadium (State Hockey Centre) in Gepps Cross. The announcement is welcomed by Hockey SA and will provide greater opportunities for the Hockey community.
The funding includes provisions for pitch, lighting maintenance and grandstand upgrades which will bring the facility in line with international standards, set by the International Hockey Federation (FIH).
Geoff Riddle, Hockey SA Chief Executive Officer said, “It’s a fantastic outcome for Hockey SA to secure this funding from the SA Government. We aspire to have Mate Stadium as a world-class facility that South Australian’s call the home of Hockey. This funding will make that dream come true.”
Upgrades are due to commence in the first week of March, creating a greater pull for international events such as the FIH Pro League, as well as ensuring a better user experience for players, officials and spectators. Details of the upgrades include:
- Pitch 1 replacement
- Lighting maintenance
- Main grandstand seating replaced
Geoff Riddle said, “We thank The Hon Corey Wingard MP for his commitment to our game and we are sure our entire community will enjoy the outcomes of this funding. From State Championships to our Performance and Development program, our Adelaide Fire program, and Premier League matches, these upgrades will benefit all the touch points of Hockey SA. “
The anticipated start date for the work is the first week of March, with completion expected in early June. Hockey SA will be working with global leader in sports facility design, construction, and maintenance provider, Polytan. Polytan are the FIH’s preferred supplier of Hockey turf and constructed the surface at the recent Tokyo 2020 Olympics. Mate Stadium will be fitted with Polytan's Platinum GT surface and will be the first of its kind in the southern hemisphere. The exact surface will be used at the upcoming FIH Women’s and Men's World Cup and will mean Hockey SA has a world-first international playing surface.
For all media enquiries contact admin@hockeysa.com.au