Victorian hockey has received a great boost with the announcement that a $1 million hockey ground will be installed in Brunswick.

The news is particularly satisfying for the Brunswick Hockey Club, one of the fastest-growing in the state, and it comes after years of campaigning for its own facility.

Brunswick now has more than 20 teams and its top side has retained a position in State League 2 after being promoted in 2005.

The new ground is the result of a joint venture between the State Government, Moreland Council, and the Brunswick Hockey Club.

Brunswick’s 2007 State League coach Paul Richards said the ground could not have come at a better time.

“We’re one of the biggest sporting clubs in this region and while we very much appreciated all the support Essendon gave us for many years fitting us in at their venue, we desperately needed our own facility,” said Richards.

He added that Brunswick could now press on with its desire to be a major force in Victorian hockey, both competitively and socially.

“We’re growing in all areas, from Minkeys through to the Vets,” he said, before adding the future looked bright at State League level, too.

“We’ve got a very young team which managed to stay up this year. Mind you, we’re always on the lookout for fresh talent.

Richards said anyone interested in finding out more about playing opportunities at Brunswick are welcome to contact the club