Northern Territory Government Backs Territory Stingers’ 2025 Malaysian Hockey League Venture

The Northern Territory Government will support the Territory Stingers with $150,000 in funding as they prepare to compete in the 2025 Malaysian Hockey League (MHL). This significant support will enhance the Stingers’ ability to represent both the Northern Territory and Australia in a premier international hockey competition, strengthen their development programs, and reinforce their role as ambassadors of the region’s rich heritage, multicultural diversity, and Indigenous identity.

The Territory Stingers have garnered strong support from corporate and community partners, and this government funding now amplifies their ability to showcase Northern Territory hockey on a global stage. The MHL venture will help Hockey Northern Territory (HNT) enhance vital pathways for athlete, coach, and umpire development, create high-level competition exposure, and position the Territory as a gateway to Asia for broader international opportunities.

“We are incredibly grateful to the Northern Territory Government for this essential support and want to recognise the hard work and dedication of our hockey community in achieving this milestone,” said Jason Butcher, CEO of Hockey Northern Territory. “This venture is not just about competition opportunity and aspiration; it’s about celebrating our community, protecting our legacy, highlighting our multicultural and Indigenous heritage, and demonstrating that the Stingers are a team and story for everyone. We are equally grateful for the unwavering support from Steve Rowe and SRA, whose contribution has been vital in getting us to this point. This is an important announcement for hockey not just for growth and sustainability but also symbolically as our government backs the work we have done and the vision for the sport that we have.”

The Territory Stingers’ entry into the MHL comes at a pivotal time, following their recent exclusion from the Hockey One expansion process. This government backing, alongside strong community and partner support, ensures Territory hockey remains thriving, resilient, and visible despite Hockey One’s decision to exclude the NT from the National pathway. The MHL playing schedule is set to be released on Monday, 25th November, at the upcoming season launch in Kuala Lumpur.

The Stingers will begin their MHL journey in early 2025, with their first game currently scheduled for Wednesday, 5th February. This venture will foster connections, promote cultural exchange, and elevate the visibility of Northern Territory hockey throughout Southeast Asia.
This partnership with the Northern Territory Government is a powerful reminder of the Territory’s resilience and the community’s determination to create pathways and opportunities for its community, while honouring the unique legacy and spirit of the region.