Hockey: Academy in Australia

Duration: 8 - 12 weeks
Australia flag
  • Overview
  • Your coaching team
  • Tuition
  • Facilities
  • Timetable
  • Matches
  • Your pad
  • Social life
  • FAQs
  • A week in the life
  • Australia
  • Sport Lived in Brisbane
  • Download a summary (PDF)
  • Request a brochure
  • Book your place

Overview

Hockey: Academy in Australia

The Sport Lived Hockey Academy gives you the chance to play and train in Brisbane, Queensland’s picturesque state capital. Our course provides the ultimate hockey development experience: you’ll receive elite coaching and have access to outstanding training facilities at our hockey academy in Australia.

Hockey Academy AUZ overview

Recommended for:

  • Working intensively on your game
  • Meeting friends through club and academy
  • Training alongside elite players & coaches
  • Time to travel before/after your programme

At a glance:

  • Regular hockey training and matches
  • Access to world class hockey facilities
  • Receive tuition from elite coaching staff
  • 4-star city centre accommodation

Sam Hiscock

Hockey match in Brisbane

Academy players in action

Fitness work at the State Hockey Centre

Sporting adventures

You can attend the Australian hockey academy for 12 weeks from March to June, or for 8 weeks during July and August. On both programmes you will play matches with a local hockey club, and have hockey skills sessions on water-based pitches during the week.

Prices and dates...

LocationDurationFromToPrice
Brisbane8 weeks05/07/201029/08/2010£ 4895
Brisbane12 weeks21/03/201112/06/2011£ 6195
Brisbane8 weeks04/07/201128/08/2011£ 4895

Social life

Regular social events are organised for players attending the academy.  Typical activities include days out at the beach, and an end of programme dinner.

social_life_hockey_academy_auz_1

Through your hockey club...

Hockey clubs enjoy an unrivalled reputation for their social activities!  Get ready to play hard and party harder.  Pub crawls, fancy dress parties, new player’s nights and BBQs ensure there’s never a dull moment. 

social_life_hockey_academy_auz_2

With Sport Lived…

You will live alongside other Sport Lived participants who are playing and coaching a wide variety of sports.  This provides a ready made group of friends with whom you’ll explore life in your chosen Aussie city.

Your programme will begin with introductory drinks during the first week, co-ordinated by your mentor who will also organise monthly social events.  These might include a day out at a seasonal sporting event, a traditional Aussie barbie, pub golf, etc.

Your pad

Accommodation is key to the Sport Lived experience. You’ll live in 4-star centrally located apartments. The apartments are a 20 minute bus ride from the University of Queensland and transport is provided to and from the State Hockey Centre.

Your pad AUZFour star city centre apartments

At a glance:

  • 4 star fully furnished apartments
  • Located close to transport and nightlife
  • Shared with other Sport Lived participants
  • Stress free as the price includes most bills

Home from home...

Apartments are shared with other Sport Lived participants and include many mod-cons. Each complex has a 24 hour reception and many have an in house swimming pool and gym. Apartments are fully furnished including a tv, linen, kitchen appliances, washing machines, etc.

NB: Illustrative accommodation pictures.

Apartment kitchen

Apartment living room

Apartment lounge diner

Apartment swimming pool

Apartment swimming pool

Apartment kitchen

Apartment living room

Apartment lounge diner

Apartment lounge diner

Apartment kitchen

Apartment living room

Apartment swimming pool

Your pad AUZ

FAQs

Do you have to be a really good hockey player to attend the academy?

No. Hockey players of all abilities can attend the academy where they will receive quality coaching, and play matches for a handpicked club at the weekends. 

How many players usually undertake the 8 and 12 week programmes?

There are usually between 10 and 12 players on each academy programme. 

What type of visa should I obtain if I attend the hockey academy in Brisbane?

The programmes are intensive, so most players don’t work during their time at the academy.  We therefore suggest that people obtain an Australia Tourist Visa which your travel agent should be able to organise for you.

If you plan to extend your trip and work in Australia then you should obtain an Australian Working Holiday Visa. This visa enables you to live and work in Australia for up to 12 months. Sport Lived can put you in touch with reputable companies who can organise your Australian Working Holiday Visa.

Can I stay in Brisbane at the end of my programme?

Yes.  If you would like to do this please liaise with the Sport Lived staff in Brisbane. 

What clothes are provided at the academy?

Upon arrival, you’ll receive academy t-shirts, jumper and shorts.

Your coaching team

Your training at the Academy will be led by world-class coaches. Our team includes specialists in a variety of disciplines so that all aspects of your sporting development will be covered. 

Read the profiles of your coaching team below and prepare to be blown away by their experience and enthusiasm.

Hamish Baron

Hamish Baron
Academy Head Coach

  • New Zealand International Player with 10 caps
  • Currently part of the extended New Zealand Men’s Training Squad
  • Assistant Coach of Auckland in the New Zealand National League
  • Assistant club coach in Brisbane

 

Antony Wood: Hockey

Antony Wood: Hockey
Strength and Conditioning Coach

  • Co-ordinates physical development programmes for all academy players
  • Programmes focus on developing players speed, agility, strength and power
  • Level 1 Strength and Conditioning Coach
  • Has a Human Movement Studies Degree from the University of Queensland
  • Previously held strength and conditioning roles with the Queensland Rugby Development Squad, Brisbane Bullets Basketball Team and Brisbane Wolves Football Club

Facilities

Whilst at the academy, you will have access to outstanding facilities. All hockey skills sessions take place at the State Hockey Centre which has 2 water-based pitches. All fitness, athlete education and sports psychology sessions are held at the University of Queensland.

At a glance:

  • 2 water-based hockey pitches
  • Gym and fitness centre
  • 8-lane Olympic swimming pool
  • Athletics track
  • Sports Medicine Facility
  • Seminar rooms

What to expect

You’ll have access to fantastic facilities to help improve all aspects of your game.
Upon arrival at the academy a thorough assessment is made of each player’s strengths and weaknesses. This assessment provides the basis of each player’s training programme during their stay. Performance objectives are set that are continually reviewed as development occurs.

The academy has an in-house sports medicine facility which includes physiotherapy, massage therapists and sports physicians.

Hockey Academy AUZ facilities 1
Hockey Academy AUZ facilities 2

Tuition

We have assembled a quality coaching team to deliver each element of the academy programme.  You’ll receive tuition from leading coaches, sports psychologists and fitness experts, who will analyse and develop every area of your game.

The coaching at the academy will focus on:

Hockey Skills

You’ll spend time working on drills aimed at improving fundamental skills and promoting technical excellence.

Physical development

You’ll have specialist coaching sessions focusing on all aspects of the physical game including strength, power, speed, agility and endurance development.

Psychological conditioning

A key area for player progress, you’ll work on mental skill development. Coaches will work with you on goal setting, overcoming negative thinking, pre-game preparation, visualisation, etc.

Athlete education

Academy students learn about wider aspects of organisation, sport and hockey. You’ll undertake lessons in diet and nutrition, injury prevention, tactical and decision-making development, and time management.

Timetable

A typical weekly schedule on our 8 and 12 week programmes is shown below. On both programmes you will undertake a combination of strength and conditioning, specific skill sessions, sports psychology and general hockey education seminars.

A typical weekly schedule...

Activity AM Activity PM
Monday

9am - 12pm

Optional Gym Session

 

1pm - 3pm

Skills Session at the State Hockey Centre

Tuesday

9am - 12pm

Optional Gym Session

 

5pm - 8pm

Club Training & Social

 

Wednesday

9am - 12pm

Optional Gym Session

 

1pm - 3pm

Skills Session at the State Hockey Centre

Thursday

10am - 12pm

Strength & Conditioning

 

5pm - 8pm

Club Training & Social

 

Friday

All Day

Optional Gym Session

& Free Time

 

 

 

Saturday

9am - 12pm

Club Match

 

12.30pm - 7pm

Club Match

 

Sunday

All Day

Rest & Optional Social Activity

 

 

 

 

Matches

In addition to training at the academy, you’ll join a hockey club in Brisbane where you’ll attend mid-week training sessions and play matches at the weekends.

Personal development

Playing for a local club will enable you to put the academy coaching into practice in weekly competitive matches.  Playing and training with a club also enables you to integrate into the local community, meet new people and make new friends.

Most hockey clubs in Brisbane have 12-16 senior teams for men and women.  Top teams play in the highest state leagues, giving you the chance to play alongside state and international players.

A week in the life...

...of Nicki Mollison who attended the Sport Lived Hockey Academy in Brisbane for 8 weeks during July and August 09

Monday

Short run along the river this morning. Light lunch followed by skills sessions at the State Hockey Centre. Saw a movie in the evening.

Tuesday

Speed and agility session in the morning. Shopping in the afternoon at the Queen Street Mall followed by club training.

Wednesday

Lie in this morning. Had a really intense academy session at the state hockey centre in the afternoon. Stayed after training to work on my drag flick with Hamish

Thursday

Strength and conditioning session at the academy in the morning.  Club training in the evening. Drinks with team mates after training followed by a night out in the city.

Friday

Weather was nice so a group of us went to the Gold Coast. Had a surfing lesson which was fun. Chilled in our apartment in the evening.

Saturday

Went for a run in the morning before going to watch the rugby lads play for their club. Cooked a veggie Lasagne for my flatmates before watching the Broncos at Suncorp.

Sunday

Match day! Played Easts at Chermside and we drew 2-2. No goals for me unfortunately but pleased with my performance.

Australia

Sun, sea, sand and SPORT!  Australia’s sporting prowess is as legendary as the Great Barrier Reef and a Sport Lived programme is your chance to experience both.

Australia highlights:

  • Watch a magical sunrise over Ayers Rock
  • Catch a cricket match at the MCG
  • Dive the Great Barrier Reef
  • Learn to surf at Bondi Beach

Choose your destination city...

Our programmes run to cities across Australia.  Click on each city to learn more but be warned, choosing your destination is NOT an easy decision.

Sport Lived in Brisbane

Simon heads up the Sport Lived team in Brisbane and is a thoroughbred Queenslander. He’s travelled the world but made Brissy his home, so hear all about his favourite city.

Brisbane
The weather in Brisbane today is...
Clear25

Your mentor recommends:

  • Head to the Gold Coast for a surfing lesson
  • Enjoy the city centre beach at South Bank
  • Visit the city's riverfront bars & restaurants
  • Check out Queensland's beautiful islands

Ed, Ali, and Barney at the Gold Coast

Sport Lived social for the Rugby Academy players in Brisbane

Beautiful one day, perfect the next is the ideal way to describe sunny Queensland. Brisbane is located right at the heart of Queensland and is renowned for its laid-back lifestyle and welcoming atmosphere. It’s hard to go wrong with the tropical climate which leads to long balmy nights spent either on the beach or enjoying a cold drink with friends.

Situated on the magnificent Brisbane River the city is the place to be. It is well known for its bustling night life. Whether you want a couple of drinks in a traditional Australian pub, a night on the dance floor or anything in between, Brisbane has a night spot to suit. Brisbane is very popular among travellers and backpackers as the city is constantly thriving with life.

Brisbane also boasts two of Australia’s best sporting stadiums. The Gabba and Suncorp Stadium host matches of Rugby League, Cricket, Aussie Rules, A League Football, Rugby Union - basically every sport you could wish for!

The city is also just an hour's drive from the stunning Gold Coast, which is known internationally as a popular tourist destination, thanks to its white sandy beaches and crystal clear ocean. Maybe now is the time to take up the opportunity to learn how to surf; or travel up further north to the beautiful rainforests and spectacular waterfalls.

In summary, Brisbane is a fantastic city offering amazing experiences. Your time spent here will be remembered and treasured for life.

Sport Lived in Melbourne

Matt has been part of the Sport Lived team in Melbourne for the last few years. Although he was born in the US, he was raised in Melbourne and considers the city home, making him perfectly placed to tell you all about its attractions.

Melbourne
The weather in Melbourne today is...
Chance of rain14

Your mentor recommends:

  • Catch the Boxing Day Test Match
  • Take a trip along the Great Ocean Road
  • Have a picnic in the Royal Botanic Gardens
  • Check out South Yarra's shops and cafés

Sport Lived participants playing golf in Melbourne

Girls night out in Melbourne

Team mates enjoying dinner in Melbourne

St. Patricks night in Melbourne

Clubbing in Melbourne

First things first. Whether it be playing professionally, socially with mates, coaching or simply watching on the telly, Melburnians LOVE sport. It doesn't matter where you are - the heart of the city, a country town, or in the suburbs, you will not only find a pub with a TV screen, but also an enthusiastic Aussie crowd to watch the action. In terms of live sport, we have the famous Boxing Day test match, Aussie Open Tennis, Grand Prix and the Melbourne Cup – Australia’s most famous horse race.

But there’s more than sport. Most importantly, the Melbourne people are an incredible bunch. There's a warm, community sense that vibrates through the city. The locals are typically laid back and welcoming. They love to show off their city and will probably insist on taking you out on the town, exchanging slang words and introducing you to their mates.

This city is famous as the home of culture in Australia and has amazing art exhibitions, markets, music and comedy festivals; shopping, nightclubs and trendy bars. Whatever your taste, you'll find places in Melbourne dedicated to people like yourself.

Sport Lived in Sydney

Christy is one of the Sport Lived mentors in Sydney. She was born and raised in the city so she knows all about the treasures, both famous and undiscovered, that this fantastic state capital has to offer.

Sydney
The weather in Sydney today is...
Chance of rain20

Your mentor recommends:

  • Climb Sydney Harbour Bridge
  • Learn to surf at Manly Beach
  • Eat at a trendy Darling Harbour restaurant
  • See a show at the iconic Opera House

Social night out in Sydney

Enjoying the sunshine in Sydney

Fancy dress night out in Sydney

From the immaculate beaches of Bondi and Manly to the beauty of the Blue Mountains, Sydney really is a city you won’t want to leave. Being a bona fide Sydneysider, you might think I’m a little biased, but I promise I tell no lies!

Spending time in Sydney is an assault on the senses. You can walk for hours around the city, admiring incredible views of the Harbour Bridge and Opera House. For an even better view head up the Centre Point Tower, where a full panoramic view awaits. If shopping is more your bag, spend some time on Pitt Street, one of Sydney’s hottest retail districts. Have a bite to eat at Darling Harbour and then head down to Circular Quay, where the city meets the water.

But Sydney isn’t just about the city. Jump on a ferry to Manly or Bondi and spend a lazy afternoon, catching some rays on the beach. Head a few hours out of Sydney to visit pristine beaches without the crowds of the city. Out west are the Blue Mountains so why not make a road trip with your new mates?

This is just the tip of iceberg when it comes to Sydney’s great attractions but I’ll leave the rest for you to explore. And if you don’t believe what I’ve written then you’ll just have to come out here and prove me wrong!

Our accommodation

OUR 4 STAR ACCOMMODATION

See our range of fully furnished 4-star city centre apartments.

Working overseas

WORK EXPERIENCE OVERSEAS

Find out about gaining valuable work experience whilst overseas.

Parents feedback

FEEDBACK FROM PARENTS

Hear what the parents have to say about the Sport Lived experience.

Our accommodation

OUR 4 STAR ACCOMMODATION

See our range of fully furnished 4-star city centre apartments.

Working overseas

WORK EXPERIENCE OVERSEAS

Find out about gaining valuable work experience whilst overseas.

Parents feedback

FEEDBACK FROM PARENTS

Hear what the parents have to say about the Sport Lived experience.

Our accommodation

OUR 4 STAR ACCOMMODATION

See our range of fully furnished 4-star city centre apartments.

Working overseas

WORK EXPERIENCE OVERSEAS

Find out about gaining valuable work experience whilst overseas.

Parents feedback

FEEDBACK FROM PARENTS

Hear what the parents have to say about the Sport Lived experience.

Our accommodation

OUR 4 STAR ACCOMMODATION

See our range of fully furnished 4-star city centre apartments.

Working overseas

WORK EXPERIENCE OVERSEAS

Find out about gaining valuable work experience whilst overseas.

Parents feedback

FEEDBACK FROM PARENTS

Hear what the parents have to say about the Sport Lived experience.

Our accommodation

OUR 4 STAR ACCOMMODATION

See our range of fully furnished 4-star city centre apartments.

Working overseas

WORK EXPERIENCE OVERSEAS

Find out about gaining valuable work experience whilst overseas.

Parents feedback

FEEDBACK FROM PARENTS

Hear what the parents have to say about the Sport Lived experience.

Our accommodation

OUR 4 STAR ACCOMMODATION

See our range of fully furnished 4-star city centre apartments.

Working overseas

WORK EXPERIENCE OVERSEAS

Find out about gaining valuable work experience whilst overseas.

Parents feedback

FEEDBACK FROM PARENTS

Hear what the parents have to say about the Sport Lived experience.

Our accommodation

OUR 4 STAR ACCOMMODATION

See our range of fully furnished 4-star city centre apartments.

Working overseas

WORK EXPERIENCE OVERSEAS

Find out about gaining valuable work experience whilst overseas.

Parents feedback

FEEDBACK FROM PARENTS

Hear what the parents have to say about the Sport Lived experience.

Our accommodation

OUR 4 STAR ACCOMMODATION

See our range of fully furnished 4-star city centre apartments.

Working overseas

WORK EXPERIENCE OVERSEAS

Find out about gaining valuable work experience whilst overseas.

Parents feedback

FEEDBACK FROM PARENTS

Hear what the parents have to say about the Sport Lived experience.

A picture says a 1000 words

A PICTURE SAYS A 1000 WORDS

See what our Sport Lived participants got up to on their travels.

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OUR BOOKING PROCESS

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A picture says a 1000 words

A PICTURE SAYS A 1000 WORDS

See what our Sport Lived participants got up to on their travels.

Our booking process

OUR BOOKING PROCESS

Follow our simple step-by-step booking process to book your place.

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Hear what the parents have to say about the Sport Lived experience.

A picture says a 1000 words

A PICTURE SAYS A 1000 WORDS

See what our Sport Lived participants got up to on their travels.

Our booking process

OUR BOOKING PROCESS

Follow our simple step-by-step booking process to book your place.

Parents feedback

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Hear what the parents have to say about the Sport Lived experience.

A picture says a 1000 words

A PICTURE SAYS A 1000 WORDS

See what our Sport Lived participants got up to on their travels.

Our booking process

OUR BOOKING PROCESS

Follow our simple step-by-step booking process to book your place.

Parents feedback

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Hear what the parents have to say about the Sport Lived experience.

A picture says a 1000 words

A PICTURE SAYS A 1000 WORDS

See what our Sport Lived participants got up to on their travels.

Our booking process

OUR BOOKING PROCESS

Follow our simple step-by-step booking process to book your place.

Parents feedback

FEEDBACK FROM PARENTS

Hear what the parents have to say about the Sport Lived experience.

A picture says a 1000 words

A PICTURE SAYS A 1000 WORDS

See what our Sport Lived participants got up to on their travels.

Our booking process

OUR BOOKING PROCESS

Follow our simple step-by-step booking process to book your place.

Parents feedback

FEEDBACK FROM PARENTS

Hear what the parents have to say about the Sport Lived experience.