Heroes of Hockey I Leighton Keane

This week in Heroes of Hockey - we head East to Kalamunda. Leighton Keane is not only the Vice President, he is one of many people who contribute to the family-like environment at the club. Kala, as well as most clubs across WA, heavily rely on volunteers to run. Leighton is one of many at his club who keep the game going and the passion for hockey always growing. 

"My earliest hockey memory is going to watch my Dad play at Perth Hockey Stadium and getting hooked on the atmosphere and game!

I got involved as my Dad and uncles played, I just wanted to be like them.

Growing up, my hockey experience was being out all day Saturday going between my brother James’s game, then to mine, then to Dad’s and almost always back to the club afterwards.

I wanted to get back into coaching after a break when my kids were younger and saw Kala as a great opportunity and haven’t looked back.

I love the club because of the people, and the vision of what a club should be.

The support and lifelong friendships I’ve made in my six years there are what keeps me going back - almost every day.

The club is so inclusive, and the tireless work of Kala’s committee and members is amazing.

The best part is coaching the next generation of young players. 

To see them develop and enjoy the game is so fulfilling.

Hockey brings people together as there is always an opportunity to play the game.

Kala are lucky to have such an eclectic mix of ages, skill levels and people from so many backgrounds. 

I firmly believe that hockey is the most inclusive sport I’ve been involved in - from access to facilities, walking hockey, junior programs- the sport covers all demographics.

The close knit community and support network inside hockey, especially in WA is fantastic. 

I have been lucky enough to be involved from such a young age and have benefited from the help and support from so many people - I think it’s a very inclusive sport.

We rely on the hard work of volunteers at club level. Kala are so lucky to have such a great group of people working to help the club, local area and most of all, the best sport - hockey."