Hockey NSW announces and welcomes Matthew Bulkeley as Hockey NSW CEO

Hockey NSW is delighted to announce it has appointed leading sports administrator, Matthew Bulkeley, as its next CEO. Matthew will commence in the CEO role on 19 August 2024.

Matthew has held CEO roles and senior leadership roles in major sporting organisations and is a proven seasoned leader of over 30 years. He joins Hockey NSW from one of his most recent appointments as CEO of Football Tasmania, where he grew commercial revenue to $700,000 over a three year period (including during a period in COVID), and secured more than $55 million of infrastructure from all levels of government.

President of Hockey NSW, Adriana Care, said that Hockey NSW received an overwhelming amount of high calibre of applicants to which Mr Bulkeley was selected.

‘We are thrilled to attract an administrator of Matthew’s extensive experience, talent and energy as we prepare for a back end of the year of activities to lead Hockey NSW into a strong 2025 year.

Matthew’s outstanding track record of growing participation at the grassroots level, working with Government at all levels and implementing strategies around infrastructure and growth, as well as superior commercial acumen is the perfect fit to lead Hockey NSW into the next era.

‘Matthew really understands the importance of supporting local and regional Clubs and Associations, which are the lifeblood of our sport, to expand capacity and foster junior development. He has led strong outcomes in these areas at cricket and football, including the rollout of small-sided and non-traditional football formats, together with club and volunteer development and recognition programs.

‘Matthew is also skilled at delivering great commercial outcomes, which includes, corporate and government partnerships and securing major events. That expertise will be of tremendous value to Hockey NSW,’ Ms Care said.

Matthew Bulkeley said his passion lies in helping more people to benefit from the improved mental, physical and social outcomes that can be obtained from participating in sport at any level.

‘I have always been a strong advocate of creating a safe and inclusive environment so all participants can have fun, stay engaged and reach their full potential. That is how you build and retain participants and members, particularly young people.

‘Hockey is such an accessible sport that can be enjoyed by people of all ages and abilities, so there is terrific potential for growth.

‘I am really looking forward to working with the Hockey NSW team, Board and the wider Hockey community to continue the development and growth of Hockey across NSW’

Adriana Care praised the work of Acting CEO, Richard Griffiths, who has accepted a new position with Hockey NSW as Chief Operating Officer to commence next month. Richard’s efforts and engagement with stakeholders and staff and the board has assisted Hockey NSW to continue through 2024. Richard looks forward to continue to working with his colleagues, the board and with Mr Bulkeley.

Richard is a skilled and committed leader who continues to make an outstanding contribution to Hockey NSW. I have enjoyed working closely with him in the past five months, and I look forward to Richard working with Matthew as a key part of our senior leadership team.’

Adriana Care
President
Hockey NSW