Hockey One League
By Renae Casey
The Hockey One League is the top field hockey competition in Australia, featuring the best of the best and delivering fast paced action. Run by Hockey Australia, it’s the pinnacle of Australian field hockey and has changed the sport since its inception. Previously known as the Australian Hockey League (AHL), Hockey One has rebranded the competition and brought new life to the sport and more attention from fans around the world.
What is the Hockey One League?
The Hockey One League is the rebranded Australian Hockey League, a new era for field hockey in Australia. Launched in 2019, it’s modernising the sport and attracting new fans with a new format, new branding and high energy matches. Unlike the traditional AHL, Hockey One has shorter seasons and entertainment is key with live broadcasts, fan engagement activities and fast paced games.
The competition promotes gender equality by running men’s and women’s tournaments at the same time with equal coverage and prize money – a first in the sports world.
Who competes in the Hockey One League?
The Hockey One League has seven teams representing different parts of Australia. These teams have the best male and female players in the country, including members of the Kookaburras (men) and Hockeyroos (women). Here are the teams:
- Adelaide Fire
- Brisbane Blaze
- Canberra Chill
- NSW Pride
- Perth Thundersticks
- HC Melbourne
- Tassie Tigers
Each team plays a series of home and away matches leading into the finals series where the champions are crowned. For fans in the USA watching these teams is a great way to see how Australia develops its world class field hockey talent.
Why is the Hockey One League special?
The Hockey One League is special for several reasons:
1. Fast and Fan Focused
Hockey One is designed for fans, with shorter match times, dynamic gameplay and thrilling penalty shootouts. The league has also gone live and social to connect with fans around the world, so USA based fans can watch online.
2. Gender Equality
Running men’s and women’s tournaments at the same time with equal coverage and prize money.
3. Australian Talent
The Hockey One League is the platform for up and coming stars and experienced hockey athletes to showcase their skills – it’s a great insight into the Australian field hockey culture.
Field Hockey Equipment: What You Need to Play Like the Pros
If you’re a field hockey fan who wants to play, understanding the equipment used by the Hockey One players is important. Here’s a quick guide:
- Hockey Stick: High performance field hockey sticks for speed, control and power. Ritual Hockey provides sticks to the pros.
- Shoes: Lightweight and grippy shoes for turf fields are a must.
- Protective Gear: Field hockey equipment including shin guards, gloves and mouthguards for safety during matches.
- Ball: Solid, dimpled and designed for turf surfaces.
If you’re a beginner or intermediate player investing in the right gear can improve your game.
How to watch the Hockey One League from the USA
USA based field hockey fans can follow the Hockey One League through live streaming and international broadcasts. Matches are often on Hockey Australia’s website, official YouTube channels or subscription based sports platforms. Social media updates and highlights will also keep you connected to the action.
With fast paced matches and world class talent the Hockey One League is a great way for USA based fans to get into field hockey and learn more about the game at the top level.
Why Hockey One matters for the future of field hockey
The Hockey One League is more than a competition; it’s a movement to change the way field hockey is perceived and played. By making the game modern and global the league is setting the stage for field hockey to get the recognition it deserves on the world stage. For USA based field hockey fans this is the chance to see a league that combines skill, excitement and innovation.