Young hockey stars to get a helping hand through new academy

Created by Peel region local Jerome Buck, the academy aims to give rural and regional hockey players area a leg-up through specialised training.

It is particularly aimed at those who struggle to attend programs in the metropolitan area, with Buck hoping to help develop Australia's next generation of hockey talent.

"Australian hockey has been at its best when the talent pool from the regional and country areas is strong," he said.

"At the moment, a lot of hockey players in far out areas can't get to Perth to attend those higher-level programs, so our aim is to take certain training sessions to them and visit their patch."

The BMR Academy, which will hold a Peel region trial later this month, has already visited Bunbury and Mt Barker as it looks to grow its player base.

Buck's vision for the program is to eventually take teams to compete in carnivals in the eastern states and New Zealand, but the academy is much more than on-field training.

A health and well-being plan spearheaded by Linda Bancroft will zero in on mental health, and give players strategies to cope with anxiety and deal with the pressure of playing at a high level.

The academy's strength and conditioning program will help players manage injuries, and guest speakers will give participants insight into higher levels of the game.

"The health and well-being plan has been a huge part of our push," Buck said.

"Giving young people tactics to deal with the pressure and demands that come with juggling sport and life is something we're passionate about.

"We're not about finding the superstar.

"We'll take on anyone who approaches the game with a good attitude and try to give them the tools they need to succeed."

The BMR Academy's Peel region trial is open to all players aged 13-18, and is free of charge to be held at the Mandurah Hockey Stadium.

Anyone looking to attend the trial can register their interest by emailing BMRcoachingacademy@gmail.com