A PARTNERSHIP that will help to build on the success of Hockey Wales has been agreed with the University of South Wales (USW).
The memorandum of understanding (MOU) will formalise an already strong relationship, and will see USW’s enhanced Sport Park at Treforest Industrial Estate used by Hockey Wales to help develop the sport in Wales.
As part of the agreement, USW will create a Hockey Wales Hub at the Sport Park, which will help to increase the number of hockey players in Wales, get staff involved in Hockey Ambassador training, and give Hockey Wales the chance to build relationships with students working on relevant research projects.
There will also be an opportunity for Hockey Wales experts to provide guest lectures and coaching at USW, support university staff involved in the Hockey Heroes programme, and help to develop USW’s student hockey teams.
Paul Rainer, Head of Sport Coaching at USW said:
“There has always been a positive relationship between USW and Hockey Wales. This agreement has strengthened this bond and will help to establish USW as a vibrant hub for the sport.
“USW already has an excellent reputation for rugby and football, and this partnership provides a unique opportunity to grow sporting opportunities and provision for its students and the community.
“While hockey is played by both genders, there is an opportunity to proactively drive the growth on participation in sport by women and girls, which is a key priority for USW.
“The staff involved are all passionate and committed to delivering success through this collaboration.”
Ria Male, Head of Development at Hockey Wales, said:
“Universities have an abundance of resource, excellent facilities, along with experts in the field of community sport and elite performance.
“Partnering with USW allows Hockey Wales to continue to grow as a high performing organisation, delivering world-class hockey experiences in Wales. Hockey Wales will support the university with its employability goals, commercialisation and student experiences.
“We are very fortunate to have a USW Alumni and a current USW Masters student to name a few, as members of our team of staff who are totally committed to supporting this new partnership arrangement and its continued growth.”
