100 Years of Women's Hockey In Queensland
On the 27th March 1923, the Queensland Women's Hockey Association was formed, and Hockey Queensland is proud to acknowledge this incredible milestone with the original meeting Minutes on the anniversary of that date 100 years ago.
St Andrews Ladies Hockey Club Women’s Association was one of the foundation clubs in 1923, as was University of Queensland (Varsity), and they are also celebrating their 100th anniversary.
Two years ago in 2021, almost to the date, we celebrated 100 years of hockey officially being played in Queensland with the formation of the Queensland Men’s Hockey Association.
An indication on how far hockey has come in 100 years, is outlined below with this amusing note:
Several items of interest which were noted during this and subsequent years were:
“the habit of shouting while on the field and it is hoped that this year a rule be in force that no shouting while on the field be observed, as to say the least of it, is very far from etiquette”. – the second item was a suggestion of a uniform (costume) to be chosen “with different bandanas and ties … “
“Mr Berry though enthusiasm was lamentably lacking in the QWHA eg. Pupil referees went on the field without knowing the rules – some did not turn up – the off-side rule was particularly badly misconstrued. Another point showing lack of enthusiasm was the fact that there were no spectators at the final match of the season … He said that players should play in one position all the time. – Mr Berry was thanked for his remarks”.
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The first ten years of Queensland Women’s Hockey Association – 1923-1935(Source: Extracts from the original Minutes books) “A meeting of the Women’s Hockey Clubs of Brisbane was called on 23 March 1923 in the Normal School with the object of forming a Queensland Women’s Hockey Association” – AND SO IT BEGAN. The original minutes show in the title the term ‘Ladies’ changed to ‘Women’s’, and the aims as – “(a) To promote a living interest in the game in Queensland
By 13 June 1923, the committee chose to have the fee set at “one guinea for this year; and in order to raise funds it was decided that a dance should be held in St Andrew’s Hall." On 22 February 1924, the first Umpires Committee was formed because of the onerous task of providing Umpires for every match.
The full "The First Ten Years" document can be viewed on the Hockey Queensland website here |
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Hockey Queensland President writes letter for 100 Years of Women's Hockey"We have recently celebrated milestones such as 100 years of hockey in Queensland and the creation of several clubs, which remain active today. This month we also celebrate 100 years since the seeds of what is now known as Hockey Queensland were planted and nurtured." "In March 1923 women from the hockey clubs in Brisbane met and held the inaugural meeting of Queensland Women’s Hockey Association (QWHA). These women determined the Aims of the new association, which were to promote the game of hockey in Queensland, improve the standard of play and encourage and maintain a true sporting spirit." "I would like to commend all of those who have contributed to QWHA over the years, the forethought and diligence in nurturing our sport has paid great dividends and I thank you for those efforts." - Steve Stewart, Hockey Queensland President |
From humble beginnings to becoming one of Australia's most successful states, hockey in Queensland has been part of Australia’s story since 1921. Take a look at the milestones and people that have shaped our journey.