The Finocchiaro CLP Government has today wished the Territory Stingers the best of luck as they fly from Darwin to Kuala Lumpur for their inaugural season in the Malaysian Hockey League (MHL).
The partnership between Hockey NT and the MHL, supported by the CLP Government, will see the Territory Stingers compete in the league for four years (2025-2028).
Part of the agreement includes an exchange program for coaches, umpires, and players as well as coaching clinics and community engagement initiatives.
The men's and women's squads include a number of young Territorians as Hockey NT look to unearth the next international hockey stars to follow in the footsteps of Brooke Peris and Jeremy Hayward.
Minister for People, Sport and Culture, Jinson Charls said the Stingers' inclusion in the MHL underlined the unique and powerful role that sport can play in opening doors and creating mutually beneficial relationships between nations.
"Alongside exposure to high-level international competition, the team will represent the Territory's rich heritage, multicultural diversity and Indigenous identity - both on and off the field," said Mr Charls.
"This is an exciting milestone for the Stingers and Hockey NT who are leading the way in finding innovative ways to develop and showcase the talent we have in the Territory".
Minister for Trade, Business and Asian Relations, Robyn Cahill, said the venture demonstrated the CLP Government's focus on strengthening ties with neighbouring Southeast Asian countries.
"It further highlights the benefits of establishing an Office of Asian Relations to connect Territorians to this influential region, and boost cross-cultural outcomes in trade, investment, tourism, study and skilled migration," said Ms Cahill.
"Increasing two-way trade across Asia, including Malaysia, will help grow the Territory's economy, with significant opportunities to diversify in sectors including food and agribusiness, manufacturing and the digital economy."
The Stingers will be based in Kuala Lumpur for the season, which runs from 4 February until 23 February.
