CSBP Festivals highlights proud regional hockey community

The first leg of the CSBP Hockey Festivals for 2023 delivered fun and games last week, as regional school students in Northam and Narrogin were exposed to two jam-packed days of hockey action featuring one of the Perth Thundersticks’ finest.  

They were the largest festivals yet for both locations, with more than 300 kids from 17 schools across the Wheatbelt region coming together over the two days with their skills on show through games, drills and friendly competition.  

A key highlight for the students was Perth Thundersticks young-gun Brodee Foster who made the trip to both Northam and Narrogin to compete alongside the kids, as well as provide high-level coaching.  

“The festivals were such a success - we saw more kids than ever before, with plenty of new schools participating which was awesome to see,” Foster said.   

“It also meant that I saw a lot of new faces this year whilst also seeing some familiar faces from last year.”  

Not only did Foster’s presence make an impact with the kids, but the star also found himself relishing the experience to mingle with the state’s next generation of hockey players.  

“To have the opportunity to interact with kids from all different walks of life is a dream, and to be able to interact with them through a sport that I love like hockey makes it even more special for me,” Foster said.  

“I think the most rewarding thing I find about doing these festivals isn't instant gratification. I have had several times now when a kid has come up to me a few months later and said they remember me and they are loving their hockey - even hearing how people have gone from never touching a hockey stick to playing full time now because they loved the carnival so much.   

"Also seeing a couple of the kids last year at Perth Thundersticks games and they ask for photos because I was the face they remembered - that little bit of joy or hope to the kids regardless of who they are or what's going on for them is what I find most rewarding.”  

The CSBP Festivals will also hit Bruce Rock and Albany this year, with dates to be announced soon.  

A big thank you to CSBP for making these regional community events possible. Visit CSBP's website.