We’re excited to officially launch the Gympie Hockey Association 2026 Pre-Season Junior Academy, a structured development program designed to provide high-quality coaching and preparation for junior players in the lead-up to the 2026 season.

This Academy supports players who want to build strong foundational skills, confidence, and game understanding, while also assisting those who may wish to trial for future representative pathways. The program draws inspiration from our established Gympie Hockey Academy model and has been carefully adapted for younger athletes preparing for the season ahead.

🏑 Program Objectives

The 2026 Pre-Season Junior Academy aims to:

• Support skill development for junior players aged 10–15 years
• Prepare players physically and mentally for the upcoming hockey season
• Introduce athletes to representative-level expectations and pathways
• Build confidence, teamwork, and enjoyment of the game
• Encourage long-term athlete development within the Gympie Hockey community

Who Is This Program For?

This program is ideal for:

• Players turning 10–15 years in 2026
• Players keen to improve their core hockey skills
• Players interested in representative hockey opportunities
• Players wanting to start the season strong, prepared, and confident

📅 Program Details

Duration: 8 weeks

Sessions: 2 sessions per week

Days: Tuesdays & Thursdays

Time: 5:00–6:00pm

Location: Gympie Hockey Fields

Cost: $120 per player (full 8-week program)

The program will be coordinated by Tanya Bothams and will feature a rotating group of experienced coaches, including specialist skill sessions across the eight weeks.

🧠 A Holistic Approach to Development
Skill Development

• Fundamental stick skills (receiving, passing, elimination)
• Attacking and defensive principles
• Game awareness and decision-making
• Position-specific skill development

Physical Preparation

• Age-appropriate fitness activities
• Movement, agility, and coordination
• Injury awareness and warm-up education

Mental & Personal Development

• Confidence building
• Resilience and positive mindset
• Teamwork and communication

Exposure to Experienced Coaches

• Sessions delivered by a variety of coaches
• Different perspectives, coaching styles, and learning approaches

⭐ Outcomes for Athletes

Participants can expect:

• Improved individual skill level
• Increased confidence entering the 2026 season
• Better understanding of team play and game structure
• Early exposure to representative-style training environments
• A strong foundation for future development within Gympie Hockey

📆 Program Schedule

Week 1: Jan 20 & 22 | 5–6pm

Week 2: Jan 27 & 28 | 5–6pm

Week 3: Feb 3 & 5 | 5–6pm

Week 4: Feb 10 & 12 | 5–6pm

Week 5: Feb 17 & 19 | 5–6pm

Week 6: Feb 24 & 26 | 5–6pm

Week 7: April 7 & 9 | 5–6pm

Week 8: April 14 & 16 | 5–6pm

⚠️ Please note: Participation in the Pre-Season Junior Academy does not guarantee selection into representative teams. However, it does demonstrate commitment, supports skill development, and provides excellent preparation for both representative and club hockey.

📣 Further details will be released shortly.
We encourage families to secure their child’s spot by registering now, as places are limited.

We look forward to supporting the development of our junior players and helping them start the 2026 season ready, confident, and motivated.