- Jarrod McGrouther
Western Sydney handed a unique opportunity
Photo: 2015 Getty Images
WITH constant talk of whether Melbourne or Sydney is the sporting capital of Australia, western Sydney has been handed a unique opportunity in June to sample sports not usually spoken about by mainstream media. The Volleyroos Men’s Volleyball side, and the USA and Canadian Ice Hockey outfits are competing in Homebush on succeeding weekends in June, and are events not to be missed.
The Volleyroos will compete against stiff competition this weekend, with games on from Friday through Sunday. Some sensational Volleyball will be played against the likes of France, Italy and Belgium, all top ranked sides in the sport. With the Volleyroos failing to qualify through their tough group for the Rio Olympic games, they’re ready to show what they’re made of.
Ben Hardy, assistant coach of the Volleyroos Men’s side said the team is looking forward to playing against stiff opposition in front of a loud home crowd,
“Two of the teams in France and Italy have already qualified for the Olympics, so expect Olympic level competition. Belgium as a team are highly regarded as well. The opportunity to play in front of a home crowd is fantastic, most of the guys live and play overseas so they’re excited to show what they’re capable of on home soil.”
Sydney Olympic Park Sports Centre is the host venue and is looking like having large crowds on hand all weekend long. For tickets visit volleyroos.com.au
Next weekend, overseas Ice Hockey action hits Sydney, with the Wayne Gretzky Ice Hockey Classic Exhibition Series between the USA and Canada returning to Australian shores. After a successful 2015 event, Ice Hockey great Wayne Gretzky is endorsing this year’s series and will even be in attendance for the Sydney clash.
NHL All-Star MVP John Scott will captain Team USA and is one of the big names due to be on display. He spoke of his excitement to bring the game he loves to Australia,
“Any time the USA and Canada face off it’s a massive event and I can’t wait to come down under for the first time and play in front of Australian ice hockey fans.”
USA and Canada will again reignite one of world sport’s most famous rivalries, with the event raising awareness and funds for the ‘STOPCONCUSSIONS’ Foundation. Qudos Bank Arena is the venue for the much-anticipated affair. Tickets are still available from ticketek.
With the likes of the GWS Giants and Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs making waves in their respective competitions, western Sydney sport is in full flight. Make sure to catch all the action of the less talked about sports this coming fortnight.