Vale Michael Nobbs

Hockey WA is deeply saddened to hear of the passing of hockey legend Michael Nobbs after a long battle with illness. 

Michael, a Hockey WA Hall of Champions member, had a profound impact on the sport, not only in Western Australia, but across the nation. 

Michael's connection to hockey in Western Australia ran deep, with his influence felt across the WA hockey community both as a player and a coach. A proud representative of Australia as a player, Michael donned the green and gold in 76 international matches. 

Within Western Australia, Michael’s legacy is further reflected in his achievements in the WA Premier League. He relocated from South Australia to Western Australia in the early 1980s, representing WA at a state level and playing for Suburban Hockey Club and UWA Hockey Club at club level, where he was a two-time Olympians’ Medal recipient. Michael viewed the move to Perth as an opportunity to further his national aspirations, allowing him to regularly train alongside Australian players under national coach Richard Aggiss. This led to him making an immeasurable impact on the sport in the state. 

Beyond his time on the field, Michael went on to build an extraordinary coaching career that left a lasting mark on the sport locally and internationally.  He was widely respected for his deep understanding of hockey and his unwavering commitment to developing people, not just players. While he held key roles in the coaching ranks in Western Australia – both at a club level and with the WA Thundersticks, winning multiple premierships – his coaching journey took him around the world, including leading India’s men’s national team and working across Asia and Europe. Although he travelled far and wide, his roots and influence within the WA hockey community remained significant and enduring. 

Hockey WA extends its deepest sympathies to Michael’s family, friends, and the many members of the WA hockey community who knew him. Michael touched the lives of countless people through his involvement in our sport, and his contribution and spirit will not be forgotten. Our thoughts are with all who are grieving as we remember and celebrate his life.