Players from the Upper Clutha Hockey Club (UCHC) took part in the National Masters Hockey Tournament in Whangārei, enjoying the event and returning with medals.

Four players from the club’s premier women’s and men’s adult teams represented UCHC across various age groups and provinces: Gaye Henderson (Auckland 60+), Rebecca Holland (Otago 40+), Damian Broadley (Wellington 55+), and Kirsty Cole (Wellington 35+).

The tournament was “a huge success” for the Wānaka players, UCHC secretary Chrissi Petit said.

“National Masters is a fantastic week of hockey where you get to reconnect with hockey friends from across the country, play some great hockey and enjoy a few drinks and ice baths after the games,” she said.

Damian Broadley (back row, fourth from left) in the Wellington men's 55+ team, which won silver.

Ninety-one teams across nine age groups (35+ through to 75+), including men and women, took part in the tournament, across two venues (Whangārei and Kaikohe).

“All of us have played a fair bit of hockey so the highlight of the week was definitely reconnecting with old friends as well as supporting each other when we could,” Chrissi said. 

Gaye’s team won gold for the Women’s Over 60s, Damian and his team grabbed the silver for Men’s Over 55s, and Kirsty’s team also claimed the silver for Women’s Over 35s.

Upper Clutha hockey players (from left) Kirsty Cole, Rebecca Holland, and Damian Broadley. 

The Upper Clutha Hockey Club registrations for the 2025 season are open now. Players across primary school, high school and premier (adult) grades can sign up with games starting in term two.

PHOTOS: Supplied