CEO Announcement

CEO Announcement

On behalf of the Hockey South Australia Board, we wish to advise the Hockey SA community that Geoff Riddle has tendered his resignation as Chief Executive Officer, with his final day being Friday, 9 January 2026.

Geoff has accepted an exciting new opportunity within the sporting landscape, and while we are saddened to see him depart, we extend our sincere thanks for his leadership, commitment, and impact during his tenure.

Since joining Hockey SA, Geoff has overseen major operational reform and helped establish the financial stability that now underpins the organisation. He has fostered a culture of accountability, continually challenging long-held practices, driving innovation, and strengthening the organisation’s foundations for the future.

Under Geoff’s leadership, Hockey South Australia has achieved a number of significant milestones, including:

• Restoring financial health and strengthening organisational sustainability
• Major facility redevelopment, including the rebuild of the pitch, lighting infrastructure, seating, and new scoreboard
• The return of International Hockey to Adelaide, hosting the Kookaburras in 2022 and the Hockeyroos in 2023
• Securing national events for South Australia, including the U16 National Championships in 2025 and Women’s Masters Championships in 2026
• Driving innovation and reinvigorating the metropolitan competition, enhancing the player and club experience
• Strengthening the Adelaide Fire and building a clear plan and platform for the program’s long-term success
• Transforming the High Performance Pathways through enhanced talent identification and development, driving participation growth across junior levels, highlighted by the U18 Boys winning Bronze in 2023 and Silver in 2025
• Producing a new Strategic Plan, guiding the direction of the sport in SA for years to come
• Bringing indoor hockey back and revitalising the discipline within the state

Geoff reflected on his time at Hockey SA, saying: "I want to thank the incredible Hockey SA staff for their commitment and professionalism. I am extremely proud of what we have achieved together – the organisation is now financially stable, pathways are strengthened, and the foundations for long-term success are in place. I believe the time is right for someone else to lead Hockey SA into the next chapter of its journey, and I leave knowing the sport in South Australia is in a strong position for the future."

Geoff leaves Hockey SA in a significantly stronger position than when he commenced, and the Board extends its deep appreciation for his dedication to the sport and its people. We wish him every success in his next chapter and thank him for his outstanding contribution to hockey in South Australia.

Further information regarding interim leadership and recruitment will be shared with the community in due course.

Derek James

President, Hockey South Australia


Pictured: Geoff Riddle