FIELD HOCKEY BC SCHOOLS PROGRAM 2008

Field Hockey BC is pleased to announce the continuation of its program aimed at introducing the sport of field hockey, the second largest team sport in the world, to elementary and middle school children.  This opportunity has become possible once again thanks to funding from Sport Canada, the Hamber Foundation, the National Schools Program initiative and the Provincial Government.

What is the Schools Program?

• This structured 6 week program will introduce children to basic field hockey skills and will promote the importance and excitement of playing as part of a team. The program is targeted at children in Grades 4, 5 & 6.
• The Program extols the virtues of health and exercise in a fun, safe and controlled environment. It also introduces children to a new and growing sport in BC.
• The culmination of the Program is a half-day Field Hockey Festival in week six that can take place at the school or at a local facility (as appropriate). This event will feature all the students involved in the program playing small games against each other.

What is Provided?

• Expertise (certified coaches many of whom are current National players).
• Equipment: balls and sticks
• Each school will also receive a Coaching manual outlining structured lesson plans for an 8-week program that they can keep for further reference.

What does the school need to provide?

• Schools need to provide the students, a venue (school gym or field subject to weather) and a slot on your weekly timetable.
• Mouth guards – each student is required to have a mouth guard – FHBC provides mouth guards for the price of $4 per mouth guard.
• Transportation to the Field Hockey Festival (as appropriate).

In addition, every participant in the Schools Program will receive:

• A certificate upon completion of the program to be presented at an assembly

When does the Program take place:

Traditionally the program is incoporated into school timetables for a six week period between January and May annually.

For further details contact Mark Saunders, Executive Director, Field Hockey BC

Opportnuities for schools participating in the 2008 FHBC Schools Program to see international hockey in BC is just around the corner.

FHBC will be offering schools the opportunity to attend international matches during the 2008 Olympic Qualifying Tournament in Victoria, April 26 - May 4, 2008 as part of their program.

Your chance to support, cheer on and inspire the current Senior National Women's team in their goal to join the Canadian Men's team at the 2008 Beijing Olympic Games.

Packages and unique opportunities for FHBC Schools Program participants will be announced shortly.

End your schools program with a 'bang' at the Olympic Qualifier!