The second recipient of an OHF Life member Award is Ken Read. Ken’s contribution to hockey administration spans more than three decades and reflects exceptional service at national, continental, and international levels.

Ken served as Secretary General of the Oceania Hockey Federation from 2005 to 2007, providing steady leadership during a period of organisational growth. During this time, the OHF Continental Development Officer role was established, and Ken played a key supportive role in the early years of the position. His guidance was particularly valuable in building relationships with the FIH and navigating international governance and personnel matters, offering strong support to Gill Gemming as she commenced in the role.

At a national level, Ken was a Hockey Australia Board Member from 2003 to 2013, including serving as Vice President. His decade of service contributed significantly to the strategic direction of the sport in Australia, and in recognition of this impact he was awarded Hockey Australia Life Membership in 2018.

Ken also made a substantial contribution internationally through his role as the OHF representative on the FIH Competitions Committee from 2002 to 2014, including serving as Chair. During this period, he was involved in the formation of the FIH Pro League and played an important role in helping developing National Federations understand the evolving international competition landscape. This included attending the 2015 Oceania Cup to deliver a workshop for National Federation representatives explaining both the FIH Pro League and the FIH World League, the latter being particularly significant for emerging hockey nations.

His practical support for Oceania hockey extended well beyond formal roles. Ken hosted the OHF Executive and officials in Hobart during the 2011 Oceania Cup and has attended numerous OHF events over many years. He has also provided pro bono legal advice to the OHF for approximately 30 years. A notable example was during the 2017 Oceania Cup in Sydney, where his health and safety advice supported the OHF’s decision to introduce a special rule limiting the height of drag flicks in matches involving Australia and New Zealand Men against Papua New Guinea Men, prioritising player safety.

In addition to his governance and advisory contributions, Ken has consistently supported individuals serving in OHF roles, offering mentorship and guidance over many years — support that continues to this day.

Ken’s involvement in the sport also includes extensive experience at the highest levels of international competition, having served as an official or team manager at six Olympic Games, an official at seven Champions Trophy tournaments, and three World Cups.

Collectively, these contributions demonstrate an extraordinary level of dedication, leadership, and service to hockey in Oceania, making Ken a highly deserving recipient of Life Membership.