Notes about grade changes for 2021:

U15 grade

1. To protect and continue to encourage our younger secondary school students and to keep them playing hockey (particularly year 9 and 10’s). Under the old format, many year 9 students would end up playing in a grade that included year 12 and 13 students. This difference in age, ability and physical size makes it very difficult for our younger players and they end up being discouraged from playing hockey.
2. As all our intermediate hockey is now half field, Waikato Hockey find it appropriate to have a dedicated grade where players can learn the full field game. Having an U15 grade allows for this, without dropping players into the deep end.
3. Having an U15 grade encourages schools to work on player development. A team that specifically caters to younger players is better for their development.

Allowing for U18 open (no school affiliation requirement)

• UPDATE 26.3.21 : While our WHA bylaws , policies etc have aimed at getting players on the field and involved and initial communications had an option to request dispensation for non secondary students to be considered the WSSSC has decreed that ONLY “ that only enrolled students (including those who are home-schooled) be able to participate in the competition”. So apologies for any confusion. Hopefully this doesn’t effect to many Schools ability to field teams. Should you have any feedback or queries regarding this change please email/contact Ned office@waikatohockey.org.nz.