Hockey Australia Congratulates King’s Birthday Honours Recipients

Hockey Australia has congratulated four esteemed members of the hockey community who have been recognised in the 2025 King’s Birthday Honours for their outstanding service to the sport and broader community.

ACT’s Michael Young has been appointed a Member of the Order of Australia (AM) for significant service to hockey and the project management industry, having made an enduring impact on hockey through governance and umpiring.

His influence has shaped the development of junior and master’s hockey across Australia, with roles spanning umpiring, coaching, mentoring, and committee leadership, including as a board member of Hockey ACT from 2022 – 2024, and Chair of its Umpiring and Technical Competition Advisory Committee from 2020 - 2024. 

A respected leader in medicine and sport, WA Professor Michael Henderson has been appointed a Member of the Order of Australia (AM) for significant service to community health, education, and the community.

Formerly Hockey WA President from 2020 – 2021, and current Chairperson of the Medical Advisory Committee for World Masters Hockey, Professor Henderson’s contributions have enhanced the welfare and governance of hockey participants on and off the field.

A stalwart of Victorian hockey for more than two decades, Jeffrey Sly has been awarded a Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) for services to hockey and the community. 

Recognised in Ballarat for having delivered the nightly news on WIN television for many years, the former Chief of Staff, and now Channel Ten producer, is a man dedicated to the hockey community.

From coaching juniors to managing national teams, and from club president to community volunteer, his service with Eureka and Golden City Hockey Club, Hockey Ballarat, and Hockey Victoria has left a lasting legacy.

Also recognised with a Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) is Queensland’s Dr Karin Walduck, for her service to community hockey.

Dr Walduck has been a tireless advocate and administrator within Queensland hockey for over 30 years. As President of the Brisbane Women’s Hockey Association since 2006 and former President of Hockey Queensland, her influence has driven growth and equity across the sport. She continues to serve at local, state and national levels, including roles with Hockey Australia’s Masters program.

Hockey Australia CEO David Pryles said the honours reflect the immense value of volunteers, leaders, and contributors across all levels of the game.

“On behalf of the entire Australian hockey community, we extend our heartfelt congratulations to Michael, Michael, Jeffrey, and Karin. Their recognition is not only well-deserved, but a reflection of the passion and commitment that makes our sport so strong.

“Their decades of service, whether through governance, grassroots development, officiating, or player support, have shaped the lives of countless individuals and strengthened hockey’s place in communities across the country."