Hockey Australia has entered a new era, announcing the launch of LIVEHockey, a dedicated streaming platform for all national, state and territory hockey events.

The streaming platform will be powered by Cluch and will feature over 1,000 hours of coverage from national events, in addition to content produced by state and territory association members.

Commenting on the launch of LIVEHockey, Hockey Australia chief executive officer, David Pryles, said: “This is a highly significant occasion for hockey in Australia, one that everyone who is interested in the sport in this country has reason to be excited about.”

“The launch of LIVEHockey will see more Australian hockey available to watch than ever before.

“Whether you are a parent or family member of a child participating in a national or state level event, want to watch the best hockey talent from different parts of the country, or simply just love the game, LIVEHockey will have something for everyone.

“The volume of content and countless hours of viewing with events spread over the entire year from every state and territory means more hockey to watch more often and all in one place.

“Significantly, part of the subscription costs from LIVEHockey will be reinvested back into the sport.

“There has been thorough and positive collaboration with the Member Associations and Cluch to make this a reality.

“We thank them for their shared vision and passion for growing the sport and enhancing its exposure at multiple levels,” he said.

Cluch managing director, Gus Seeback, added: “From the outset, everyone involved has embraced the potential of a centralised platform that will bring together hockey fans and communities from across Australia and provide a level of insights, value and growth opportunities that have never before been possible.”

LIVEHockey will offer a combination of free-to-air and subscription content, with the first matches going live on March 19 when round one of the South Australia and Hockey Tasmania Premier Leagues kicks off.

The announcement also comes a month after Andy Crook was named as the new general manager of the Sultana Bran Hockey One League, replacing Tony Dodemaide who resigned last October.