Hockey NSW Women's Masters State Championship a success for Bathurst

Across four days, 110 teams took to the fields at the Bathurst Hockey Complex for a host of tight matches and immense displays of positive sportspersonship.

The championship has run each year since 1986 and the Bathurst Women's Hockey Association [BWHA] fielded seven teams [including one from Cowra] for this year's event.

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"Everything ran on schedule, and the beautiful weather and strong enthusiasm displayed by the players and officials ensured the event was a success," BWHA president Julie George said.

"There was a few injury concerns, but hopefully they'll recover in time for next year's championship."

Ms George said most of the matches were closely fought, and the supporters helped provide a vibrant atmosphere throughout the complex.

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"Over the years, it has become commonplace for teams to come up with unique, matching costumes to add a fun element to the championship," she said.

"A themed championship dinner is held each year for all participants, and this year's theme was 'black and white.'"

The championship is a key event Bathurst's female hockey players look forward to once they turn 35, and BWHA registrar Wendy Hastings said the event unites people from a variety of backgrounds.

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"Interestingly, the support staff for each team mostly consist of players under 35 who look forward to participating in the championship one day," Ms Hastings said.

Ms George said the championship showcases Bathurst's ability to host large-scale sporting events, and proves you're never too old for a game of hockey.

"We feel pretty blessed as a hockey community here in Bathurst and once you play your first masters, you're a master for life," she said.