Hockey Australia Strengthens High Performance Pathway with National Coaching Appointments

Hockey Australia today announced the creation of two pivotal roles within its high-performance structure: Women’s Pathway Head Coach and Men’s Pathway Head Coach. These newly established national positions will play a critical role in shaping the next generation of elite athletes and driving sustained podium success on the world stage.

The roles are a key initiative under Hockey Australia’s 2026–2028 Strategic Plan, directly supporting the organisation’s ambition to be consistently top three in the business of high performance while aligning with its broader purpose to lead Australian hockey’s excellence, participation and global success through to its 2035 Strategic Direction.

The Women’s and Men’s Pathway Head Coaches will lead the identification, development and acceleration of emerging talent across the national pathway system. Each will provide both strategic and hands-on leadership of the National Under-21 programs, including preparation for pinnacle events such as the FIH Junior World Cup, while also overseeing the National Under-18 programs to strengthen the elite talent pipeline.

In addition, the roles will play a central part in delivering technical leadership and alignment across the National Athlete Pathway Programs (NAPP), working closely with coaches and stakeholders nationwide to ensure consistency in coaching philosophy, performance standards and athlete development frameworks.

Hockey Australia CEO David Pryles said the investment reflects a clear and deliberate focus on long-term high-performance success.

“Achieving and sustaining a top-three standing in world hockey requires more than strong senior teams. It demands a connected, future-focused pathway,” Pryles said. “These roles will ensure we are systematically developing the next generation of Kookaburras and Hockeyroos with the skills, mindset and resilience needed to succeed at the highest level.”

The introduction of dedicated pathway leadership across both women’s and men’s programs reinforces Hockey Australia’s commitment to equal excellence and a unified high-performance system. By strengthening alignment from junior development through to the senior national teams, the organisation is building a more cohesive and sustainable performance environment.

These appointments mark a significant step in Hockey Australia’s strategic journey ensuring the nation remains a global leader in the sport and continues to set the benchmark for high performance excellence.

Recruitment for both positions will commence immediately. You can find more information via the links below.

Pathways Head Coach - Women (Position Description)
Apply Here

Pathways Head Coach - Men (Position Description)
Apply Here