Yes, Kodava hockey is still alive in America!
After this years successful first ever Kodava hockey team’s participation in a tournament at Phoenix, Arizona, In January of 2011 US Kodava hockey team will be playing in the 7th annual Cactus Classic Field Hockey tournament. This event will be held in Phoenix, AZ on January 22nd and 23rd.
This year the team will play in the social division paving way for some of our fellow Kodavathi’s to participate in the games. Cactus Classic tournament is hosted annually by Phoenix Scorpions Hockey Club wherein teams from all over America, Mexico, Canada and England play in various divisions for 2 days. Its exciting time of the year to be in Phoenix, AZ where the sun shines bright and air is very cool.
As envisioned by some of our fellow Kodavas, we want to make it a tradition that every year at least one Kodava team play in a tournament somewhere in America. For now, we will continue to focus on playing in Arizona during January of every year, where Kodavas can meet from near and far and watch the “Team Coorg” play hockey. Long term goal is to have a team in each of the coasts of America and play in various field hockey tournaments supplementing players from Midwest and Southern states.
To update on the progress for 2011 tournament:
· The dates are January 22nd and 23rd of 2011.
· Team Coorg will enter in the social group (Minimum of 3 women in the team at all times).
· Team roster is being finalized. Commitment from players from Arizona, Detroit, New York, Connecticut, California, Texas and several other locations of US totaling around 18. We are looking for few women players over the age of 12. Please let us know if there is any interest.
· Dinner party on 22nd Evening for all guests (expecting around 50 – 70 people) hosted by Phoenix Kodavas.
Last year we had great support and several hockey paraphernalia and gears for the team were bought with the support from generous donors. As always we are looking for support from all the Kodavas to keep up the tradition and motivate our fellow Kodavas to participate. If anybody wants to contribute, you can send in your contribution to “Team Coorg” 8510 S Stephanie Ln, Tempe, AZ 85284.
Finally, please consider this as personal invitation to come and visit us in Arizona, enjoy the game of hockey and watch your “Team Coorg” play.
Appachu Ballachanda & Madhu Muruvanda will continue to coordinate the activities of Team Coorg and any enquiries and interest in visiting or playing the game can reach out to Appachu at 480-242-7066 or email at teamcoorgusa@gmail.com. We can assist with your staying/accommodation arrangements during your visit.
Regards
Organizers -Team Coorg
