Pakistan v India Social Hockey Game

As a curtain raiser for the final Brisbane Blaze Home Round, the APNA (Australian Pakistani National Association) organised and ran a 'Social Hockey Game' between teams from India and Pakistan. 

The event was created by the initiative of APNA (Australian Pakistani National Association) and their president Syed Shoaib Zaidi. The event was supported by Pakistani and Indian community groups and leaders including the MAJHA Youth Club Brisbane. Dr. Shabbir Ahmed from Pakistan and Dr. Bernard Malik from India, both esteemed senior community leaders with significant experience in hockey, were involved in guiding this initiative. MP Chris Whiting was also a huge supporter of the event.

APNA has successfully facilitated soccer and cricket matches between the Pakistani and Indian communities in the past, fostering camaraderie and promoting goodwill. Building on this success, the concept of social hockey matches between the Pakistani and Indian communities was introduced. Two 20-minute matches were held back-to-back on the match pitch at SHC with India Eagles defeating Pakistani Shaeen.

The teams and players enjoyed group photos and celebrations on the pitch and were awarded medals of appreciation and the trophy in the SHC courtyard. With a positive response from the event there is a plan to establish an Asian hockey team in the Master Hockey category.

Hockey QLD was initially approached as providing the State Hockey Centre for the initiative, and was thrilled to support the event as it brought together and celebrated diverse groups within our hockey community. 

Hockey Queensland's involvement included:

• hosting the games and two training session at SHC
• Provision of equipment to teams
• provision of internationally experienced umpires and technical officials for the games
• special discount codes for supporters to join the event
• and free event access for players and team staff to the Blaze Home Round