NEWS

Andy Crook appointed General Manager

The Sultana Bran Hockey One League has a new General Manager with experienced sports executive Andy Crook appointed to lead Australia’s premier national hockey league.

Crook spent five years as Chief Operating Officer for the National Basketball League (NBL) and was Chief Executive of netball’s Trans-Tasman competition (then called the ANZ Championship).

“Andy has extensive knowledge and experience in leading and growing competitions that share similarities with the Sultana Bran Hockey One League,” said Sultana Bran Hockey One League Chair, Colin Richardson.

“As an elite sport competition with a compelling spectator offering, Hockey One has immense potential and is the integral piece to bring hockey into the mainstream of Australian sport and the minds of all sport enthusiasts.

“Building hockey’s recognition in Australia following the Kookaburras’ successful Olympic campaign is a key goal for Andy and Hockey One.”

“Andy is an ideal fit to take the league into this next exciting phase as we gear up to launch the second season later this year.”

Crook is excited by the prospect of growing the league and introducing new and already successful strategies he has developed over his career.

“I have been fortunate in the roles I have had over the last 10-15 years and see a lot of similarities in the leagues I have led and Hockey One,” said Crook.

“Looking at the league from a marketing, media and commercial lens is something I bring with the intent of continuing to make it entertaining for the fans.”

“I see hockey as a really big sport in Australia. The product and brand that has been created around Hockey One is really exciting, fresh and innovative. Building the fan base is going to be a key focus.

“The potential to grow and expand into the broader sporting landscape through Hockey One is huge.”

Crook replaces former GM Tony Dodemaide who resigned in October last year to become a national cricket selector.

Following a successful inaugural season in 2019, the league has not gone ahead in the past two years due to COVID.

Season 2 of the Sultana Bran Hockey One League is set to begin in October 2022.