THE Bega Valley Hockey Fields were alive with the crack of clashing hockey sticks on Saturday.
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The Far South Coast Hockey Association started the year with a full round of games and welcomed a number of new teams across many divisions.
One of the new teams welcomed to the line up was the Magpies who took on the Candelo Men in a solid contest.
However, Candelo proved a bit too strong for the newcomers, showing its experience on the day.
Other teams were also showing good form for the first round, while others struggled in the sweltering heat.
Plenty of last year’s finalists took to the paddock to show why they were at the top of the ladder.
The bright-pink outfits of Elders, the maroon of the Babes and the green of Pambula’s squads were all standouts on the day.
A number of players have swapped alliances this year.
Elders took on the new Mix team, which was spearheaded by Leigh Rogers.
Despite Rogers playing for the other team, Elders was still well-served by Joccoaa Rogers and Kezie Apps.
Nikki Smith also joined in with the Grand Hotel A grade squad against former team-mates.
However, taking on the Babes proved a tall order for the Grand Hotel.
Wendy Deighton and Al Christison were strong in the attack, while Alana Koellner defended through the midfield.
On the Grand Hotel team, newcomer Millie Boyle worked hard up the wing, while stalwarts Hayley Jessop and Fiona Holmes worked hard.
Mark Rose was another player taking the field against former team-mates as the Grand Hotel men’s squad took on Pambula Thunder.
Squads will now look forward to round two on Saturday at the Valley Fields.