Bobby Boost Keeps Capital Inline Hockey on the Rink

The Capital Inline Hockey Club has received a timely boost thanks to a $5k grant from the Bobby Foundation, helping the club cover rink fees and keep the sport affordable and accessible for players across the region. With rink hire an ongoing cost, this funding helps to ease the financial pressure.

Club Secretary, Kent Barnes, said the funding made an immediate difference. “Support for rink fees allows the club to charge members less and still expand equipment holdings, which will allow everyone who wants to play, to be able to play.”

Keeping costs down for families has been particularly important for junior players, where affordability can determine whether young athletes stay in the sport. Feedback had indicated that the cost of playing was the biggest concern for families of new and junior players, so relief like this is important. Kent told us that things were looking positive in that regard. “The club has grown 16% this year. The junior club was able to field teams in every grade at the Kings Birthday Tournament for the first time in six years.”

On the national stage, the club enjoyed strong success during the season and Kent shared some of these highlights, “The U14 and junior women placed 2nd at the National Club Championships, and our Premier team won the National Premier League and National Club Championships, defending last year’s titles.”

Our congratulations to all the participants.

Reflecting on the funding process, Kent noted the value of guidance and support. “Applying for funding was a bit daunting the first time I did it, but once you have your head around it and know where to find the relevant information it is quite straightforward.”

Here's to the club's continued success.

Bobby Foundation, Backing Kiwi Legends.