Hockey Australia enters bold new era with leadership appointments unveiled
Outgoing Hockey Australia President Ross Sudano will step down from his role following the conclusion of his final Board term, concluding a significant chapter of leadership and contribution to hockey in Australia.
Hockey Australia President Ross Sudano will step down from his role following the conclusion of today’s Annual General Meeting, concluding a significant chapter of leadership and contribution to hockey in Australia.
Since joining the Hockey Australia Board in 2020 and being appointed President in 2021, Sudano has played a key role in guiding the organisation through a period of transformation, helping shape the direction of the sport both on and off the field.
During his tenure, Hockey Australia strengthened its commercial footprint, enhanced governance frameworks and progressed strategic alignment across the sport It was also announced that a state-of-the-art High Performance Centre of Excellence will be built in Perth, with the $135 million investment by the WA State Government the biggest in the sport’s history in Australia and set to arguably become the best hockey facility in the world.
“I am thankful for the opportunity to contribute to the ongoing development of the sport I love. I am thankful for the support, guidance, care and robust conversations with so many within our sport as we continue to reshape our future,” Sudano said.
“As my time on the Board of Hockey Australia comes to an end, I am excited about the opportunity that sits before us as we seek to capitalise on the once-in-a-generational opportunity to hold a home Olympics in Brisbane 2032.”
“I thank all at Hockey Australia and all involved in hockey for your ongoing support and care for our wonderful sport.”
Hockey Australia CEO David Pryles thanked Sudano for his leadership and contribution to the organisation.
“Ross has provided outstanding leadership during an important period for Hockey Australia,” Pryles said.
“His strategic mindset, passion for the sport and commitment to building a strong and sustainable future for hockey has had a significant impact across the organisation.”
“On behalf of everyone at Hockey Australia, I would like to sincerely thank Ross for his dedication and contribution to the sport, and we wish him and his family all the very best for the future.”
As Hockey Australia enters its next chapter, the organisation has announced the appointment of Sally Carbon as its new President, ushering in a bold new era for the sport leading into the Brisbane 2032 Olympic Games and beyond.
Carbon takes over at a transformative time for hockey in Australia, with Hockey Australia unveiling a new Strategic Direction and ambitious long-term Strategic Plan designed to shape the future of the sport through to 2035.
Hockey Australia has also welcomed new Board member Craig Sloan to support the continued growth and strategic direction of the organisation, bringing a diverse range of expertise, leadership and experience during one of the most important periods in Australian hockey history.
Together, Hockey Australia’s renewed leadership, governance and strategic vision position the sport to capitalise on a once-in-a-generation opportunity leading into Brisbane 2032 and beyond, with a clear focus on long-term growth, stronger engagement and continued success on and off the field.
