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Melton Hockey Club |
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Melton Hockey Club |
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Q. Where is the home ground?
A. Mowbray College, Centenary Avenue, Melton (Melways 337-A4 in newer editions). If gate 3 (on Centenary Avenue itself) is open, you may carefully use that entrance. Otherwise, the Hockey entrance is via the access road on the extension to Palmerston Street. Speed limits are posted and they are to be observed at all times.Parking is at your own risk!
For further details and booking information CLICK HERE
Q. What is the facility like?
A. The ground is first class! Completed in November 95, it features a brilliant color scheme (green is offset by a brown edging) and has quality underlay. Team shelters were constructed by the club in the 1997 season, so spectators can watch in comfort from under cover.In August 2000, full-field lighting was installed for more effective training and so that juniors at all age-groups can play their home games locally. A well-equipped cafeteria was installed during the summer of 1999/00. Clubrooms were erected towards the end of the 2002 winter season. Another shipping container was added for storage in July 2004. The clubrooms were lined and painted, and a floating timber floor was laid in September 2005. 
Q. What teams are fielded?
A. In 2007, the club fields senior teams in Women's District 2 North and State League 4 men, Metro 2 West men, Metro 3 West men, Metro 4 West men, Metro 4 North Women, and Veterans C West and E. We also have U15, U13, U11, and U9 junior teams.
Q. Who are the coaches? What qualifications do they hold?
A. To see the current coaches CLICK HERE. We encourage coaches to receive accreditation under the National Officiating Program, but first year coaches often do not have this qualification.
Q. What are the fees? When are they payable?
A. Click here to see the 2007 fees and the conditions of payment. Note that discounts apply to full-time students or pensioners and families. Senior and Veteran goalkeepers also get special prices.
Q. Why are Melton's fees so cheap in comparison to other clubs?
A. Through the hard work of a dedicated set of unpaid volunteers, our administrative costs are very low. Unlike other clubs, we do not pay players and our coaches are paid only a token amount for their services.
Q. I want to play, but can't commit to a full season. What options are open to me?
A. Naturally, the club prefers settled teams comprising fully paid members, but if your circumstances only allow you to play part of the season, or on a week to week basis, then we can usually accomodate you. Depending on your requirements, you can pay pro-rata for the season, or per game. Contact the CEO to discuss your needs.
Q. I am interested in having a closer look at the club. How can I check it out?
A. See the Training Details page to see when and where the club is training, and just turn up. If you email or send your name, address, date of birth, and email address to the club, you will receive obligation-free newsletters.
Q. Where are games played? When?
A. Depending on the competition entered, games are usually played in the western suburbs. Junior games are played Friday nights (U13/15/17) and Saturday mornings (U11/9) and seniors play Saturday or Sunday afternoons. Melton usually requests all senior home games to be played on Saturday.
Q. What equipment do I need to try out the sport?
A. None! Apart from a good pair of running shoes and suitable clothing, we can provide you with a stick on loan if you want to try out the sport before you commit. A mouthguard and shinpads are a good idea, but seasoned players know how to play safely with new players so there is no need for concern if you don't have them.
Q. What is the uniform? What about a Number? A. Melton's uniform is black shorts, maroon top with black and white trim, and black socks with a maroon turnover. Shirts cost $40 and shorts cost $20, with socks $5 a pair. Numbers are allocated to all those playing in the senior or veteran competition. CLICK HERE to see a list of allocated and vacant numbers. CLICK HERE to see the uniform/logos history page.
Q. It's been a while since I played. What are the current rules?
A. The game is much simpler now. Gone is the old "sticks" rule, there is no offside, and obstruction is now almost eliminated. To view a current copy of the rules, click here.
Q. I am worried about getting injured. Isn't hockey dangerous??
A. With the introduction of artificial surfaces, hockey is now much safer than it was on grass. The chance of a raised ball is significantly reduced, and players generally play a more controlled style of play. Umpires are usually very strict on keeping the play safe, especially at junior levels.
Injuries do occur however, with the most common being grazes to knees, elbows, or hands from contact with the surface. The club carries first aid equipment to overcome these simple problems. Occasionally though, a more serious injury can occur, and players are advised to wear a mouthguard at all times when playing.
The club has third-party public liability insurance, however players are not covered for any personal injury. It is recommended that players obtain their own health and/or income protection insurance.
Q. My business would like to support the club financially. How can I help?
A. There are many options available to support the club. Tax-deductible advertising packages can give your business valuable exposure to not only the members of the club, but also the students and families of Mowbray College. For details and pricings on these packages click here. We are also always looking for sponsorship, and contact the club if you would like to assist.
Q. I have more questions. Can I talk to someone?
A. No problem. Send an email
If you have any more questions, please drop me an email and I will send you the answers and include the questions in this faq.
