Following careful consideration of the long-term National Championships calendar, the Polocrosse Australia (PA) Board has resolved that the National Championships originally anticipated for 2028 will instead be conducted in 2029.
This decision follows the postponement of the 2026 National Championships to 2027 and reflects the Board’s commitment to the long-term sustainability of the National Championships and the broader interests of Australian polocrosse.
In reaching this decision, the Board carefully considered a range of factors, including the impact on community polocrosse, event sustainability, future high performance planning and the opportunity to strengthen Australia’s premier polocrosse event.
Importantly, New South Wales remains the next allocated host State for the National Championships. The Polocrosse Association of New South Wales has been asked to confirm its position under the revised timeframe before the Board determines the next steps regarding the hosting arrangements for the 2029 National Championships.
PA President Mick Templeton said the decision was about much more than simply changing the date of the next National Championships.
“The decision to move the National Championships to 2029 wasn’t simply about changing a date. It was about creating the opportunity to ensure our premier event continues to serve the sport for many years to come.”
“Community polocrosse is the foundation of our sport, and it was important that we considered the impact this decision would have on our clubs, members and volunteers. We now have an opportunity to take a step back, listen to our community and ensure the National Championships continue to evolve alongside our sport.”
“We know our members are passionate about the National Championships, and we want that passion to help shape their future. This review is an opportunity for all of us to think boldly, challenge traditional ideas and work together to ensure the National Championships remain the pinnacle event in Australian polocrosse.”
Launching the future of the National Championships review
The period leading into the 2029 National Championships will be used to undertake the future of the National Championships review.
Building on the findings of the current whole of sport review, this initiative will bring together State Associations and members from across Australia to explore how the National Championships can continue to evolve and remain the pinnacle event on the Australian polocrosse calendar.
The review will examine all aspects of the National Championships, including event structure, scheduling, participation, pathways, sustainability and the overall experience for competitors, volunteers, officials, spectators and host organisations.
The Board recognises that our sport is evolving and believes this review presents an opportunity to think beyond the traditional model. Rather than making incremental changes, PA is encouraging open minds, innovative ideas and constructive discussion to ensure the National Championships continue to meet the needs of the sport for many years to come.
Looking ahead to Darwin 2027
While planning for the future is underway, the immediate focus remains on delivering an outstanding 2027 Australian National Championships in Darwin.
Following the postponement of the 2026 Championships, the Australian polocrosse community now has the opportunity to come together in the Northern Territory from 21-28 June 2027 for what promises to be a memorable celebration of our sport.
Polocrosse Australia is looking forward to working alongside the Northern Territory Polocrosse Association, volunteers, officials, competitors and supporters to deliver an exceptional National Championships that showcases the very best of Australian polocrosse.
