August Newsletter
AISC July Newsletter Update
Message From The President
The end of the season has arrived for all our senior teams, and for the juniors, their final matches are fast approaching.
Our premier men ended their campaign on a high note after clawing back to 2-2 in the final seconds of normal time in their semi-final match, being tipped at the post in a dramatic shoot-out against a polished Roskill Eden team. I am incredibly proud of the lads for their effort and diligence; they played their hearts out and left it all on the turf. Thank you to all the supporters who trekked to Mt Roskill Grammar on a chilly afternoon. I am sure the boys would have appreciated all the support they received from the sideline. We have not been in the top four for quite some time, but we have seen a significant improvement in our standings, finishing the Auckland competition in third place.
Well done to Luke Elmes and Oscar Nation, who represented the NZ A team on their recent tour of China. It was a massive achievement and a fantastic experience for them.
Our selected heritage player, Deelan Patel, will participate in a Tournament in Australia in September. Congrats on being selected to represent.
Congratulations to Keshan Narsai, who will represent Auckland in the upcoming National NHC Competition in Christchurch in September.
This year, the National Hockey Championship is being hosted in Christchurch, September 14th - 20th.
National Hockey Championship Representative Players
Benji Culhane - Otago
Oscar Nation - Hawkes Bay
Luke Elmes - Hawkes Bay
Sean Findlay - Hawkes Bay
Keshan Narsai - Auckland
Deelan Patel - Auckland
Congratulations to our 2025 U16 Auckland and Regional Representatives
Nikhil Davison
Remy Lala
Oliver Ensor
Caleb Valabh
Kailesh Chhima
Shyam Dhanji
Aariya Rama
Maiah Rama
Anika Bayer
Siara Rama
Zahrena Soma
Ashaani Nathoo
Delisha Patel
Dhriti Patel
Navia Ranchhod
Rosalie Slaat
Zeta Pancha
I hope you all enjoyed the hockey season. Now, we are turning our focus to the upcoming cricket season.
I look forward to seeing many of you at our upcoming prizegiving, which should be an epic night at a new venue this year. A very BIG thank you to all our coaches, managers, parents and supporters who have supported our club this hockey season. Our Executive Team greatly appreciates your time and support.
Raj Pancha
President
Hockey Update
Youth Girls Report
Our Youth Girls U16 team participated in the Youth Champ 1 Grade. The girls combined well as a team on and off the field, fostering a strong culture of inclusiveness. Their commitment to self-improvement was admirable, with some backing up from games earlier in the day to attend training. Week on week, a near full squad at training showed a real commitment, particularly on those cold and rainy, miserable Monday nights. This commitment has galvanised this team to perform for each other and consistently play well. The team, after an early setback, bounced back admirably, performing consistently throughout the remainder of the year, characterised by games of free-flowing attacking flair and at other times grinding out hard-fought wins. The team's ability to adapt playing styles according to the opposition and raise the performance bar weekly has been commendable. The team placed second during the round robin phase of the competition. The team's willingness to compete and grind out wins with a never-say-die attitude during the playoffs earned them a place in the final. The team came out on top in a hard-fought final with a well-deserved 1-0 win.
This team is truly a champion team, and once again, Well-Done Girls!!!
Back Row: Zahreena Soma, Saiesha Chhotu, Delisha Patel, Dhriti Patel, Sanah Raniga, Navia Ranchhod, Dhruvi Patel, Ashaani Nathoo, Anika Patel, Nitya Jaiswal, Zahra Soma, Bhavna Rama (Manager), Deepak Rama (Coach)
Front Row: Anika Bayer, Maiah Rama, Rosalie Slaat, Siara Rama, Eesha Mehta
Absent: Isla Crowther
D2 Women's Minor Championship Winners
We are incredibly proud of our D2 Women’s Team, who battled through a challenging season to be crowned Minor D2 Champions. Our girls faced Waitakere, a team they have had 2 wins and 1 loss against. From the first whistle, the girls came out firing, striking early. A strong hit from Prashila Puna travelled all the way across the field, straight into the circle, where Sharnia Dahya scored a goal in the opening five minutes of the first quarter.
Determined to extend their lead, the team kept up the pressure and were rewarded in the third quarter with a stunning reverse shot by Maiah Rama, from the top of the circle and hitting the net. Shortly after, Waitakere responded with a penalty corner conversion, closing the gap to 2-1 heading into the final quarter. With composure and resilience, our ladies held strong, shutting down every opportunity and sealing a well-deserved victory.
A special thank you goes out to the former players who returned to help make this team possible, with a special mention to Prashila Puna and Anjana Soma, who stepped up and gave this team the support they needed. Additionally, a special mention goes to our current squad members for their commitment on and off the field. Every single player’s dedication has been the backbone of this success. Thank you to our coach, Raj Pancha - this team wouldn’t have achieved this without you.
Highlights of the Season:
Welcoming back our experienced ladies, who returned to the field and powered through full games (with the help of some halftime lollies!).
Priya Kesha proving her loyalty to AISC after learning that joining another club meant washing the team shirts!
A surprising twist this season… not a single card for Prashila Puna!
Teaching Sharnia Dahya a few key Gujarati words so she knew exactly who to pull out to during penalty corners instead of being confused during the team huddle (Nalu: Short, Sidhu: Straight)
Our amazing supporters showing up week after week, with a special shout-out to our mini cheerleaders - Kiara Puna, Mischa Puna and Yaash Soma
We also couldn’t have done it without our good luck charm – a tattoo of the captain Maya Patel’s face, which all members proudly wore on their arms during the final match.
Back Row: Raj Panch (Coach), Terensha Fernandes, Mudraa Patel, Deepa Patel, Rajveer Nijjer, Asha Vaidya, Maiah Rama, Anjana Soma, Zeta Pancha
Front Row: Sharnia Dahya, Ashwina Parbhu, Prashila Puna (Manager), Maya Patel (Captain), Priya Kesha, Jenisha Patel
Absent: Aanchal Aravinthan
Premier Men's Semi Final v Roskill Eden
9 August 2025 at MRGS
A 4 Nil win against University a few weeks ago helped our Premier Men's side finish 4th at the end of 2 rounds of the AHA Premier Championship. We qualified for a knockout semi-final against perennial performers Roskill. We had evaded Somerville the previous week with a 5-3 win to help put AISC into this position.
This game built up to be a high-octane match from start to finish, and it didn't disappoint. Dylan Thomas, from Roskill, set the early pace at lightning speed, carving up our defence and earning a penalty corner. He converted with a smoking drag flick. The score was 1-0 after roughly 2 minutes.
The goal took AISC slightly by surprise, but it hardened our resolve.
The match ebbed and flowed for much of the quarter, with Roskill dominating early but AISC having the better territory and possession in Q2.
A nice cross from the deep right side, across the circle, and a deft reverse deflection from Oscar Nation saw a 1-1 score at halftime. The second half began similarly to the first half, with Roskill pouring on pressure, leading to a one-on-one breakaway with Dylan Thomas vs Luke Elmes (AISC custodian). A strong reverse hand hit by Thomas by the penalty spot, eluded our keeper and gave Roskill a 2-1 lead early in Q3.
AISC had various circle penetrations, as did Roskill, but we could not score an equaliser. The match got tense as AISC pushed for a second, with Roskill losing their incredible lead a couple of times and earning yellow cards.
A late PC was awarded to AISC with no result. As the match wore down to the final seconds, a deliberate infringement by Roskill gave AISC a final chance to equalise. The clock had run out, so all AISC players dotted themselves around the circle edge, awaiting an opportunity to steal a late draw and force a penalty shoot-out. The ball came out, cleanly trapped, then swept into the circle from the top, and another deflection by Benji Culhane saw the ball go into the top right corner of the net, equalising the game 2-2. What a fantastic finish to a top-notch hockey match I have not witnessed for some time.
Unfortunately, Roskill prevailed 4-3 in the shoot-out and advanced to the final, beating Southern 7-1. This match was played with a huge AISC support base, which was something to behold. The Club is immensely proud of the Premier Men's team's performance, even though this match did not go our way.
Lastly, a special mention to Stephan Jenness and Blair Tarrant for all their hard work and dedication to growing such an incredible team culture on and off the field. This team has grown so much over the past couple of months. Can't wait to see what next year holds for this team.
Back Row: Caleb Fernandes, Stephen Jenness (Coach), Sean Findlay, Keshan Narsai (Captain), Jacob Smith, Andy Dalman, Preetesh Parsotam, Oscar Nation, Joseph Yoon, Devan Narsai, Luke Elmes, Blair Tarrant (Coach), Priya Kanji (Manager)
Front Row: Benji Culhane, Kieran Chhiba, Jainesh Sukha, Jayden Dahya, Dipesh Dahya, Akeel Patel, Rahul Naickar, Miten Patel, Jaiden Gosha, Thomas Hocking
Absent: Deelan Patel & George Darin
Division 3A Men's Hockey Report
Another season complete, and what a season it was! D3A had a strong squad this year, with many of last year's lads returning alongside several seasoned veterans joining the team.
The team was built around:
Player/Coach Manoj Patel, Manager Umesh Dayal, Captain Sanjay Soma, Chiman Kesry (GK), Bharat Parbhoo, Sandeep Jeram (GK), Sandeep Patel, Sachin Patel, Anish Dheda, Mayur Patel, Rupesh Patel, Bhovesh Patel, Jayant Bhana, Manhar Patel, Niran Iswar, Viraj Patel, Dharmesh Patel, Nilesh Bhula, Santosh Ranchhod, Paresh Vallabh, Ranesh Parmar, Raju Bhana, Sunil Patel, Jayson Dahya, Rakesh Nathoo, and Sanjai Patel.
Season Journey
On paper, the squad were a real contender in the D3 competition with the return of some familiar faces, including Sunil and Santosh. However, we started slowly with a few early losses, early injuries, personal commitments and special milestones, with first-time dads and weddings in the squad, which meant availability was sometimes a challenge.
With the squad stretched, an SOS was sent out, and senior players Sanjay Soma, Rakesh Nathoo, Bhovesh Patel, and Sandeep Patel answered the call. Their experience, combined with a few tactical tweaks and a fresh formation, sparked a turnaround in results.
We registered some great wins midway through the season, including strong performances against Grammar and Western, plus a goal-filled victory over Waitakere, which lifted us to 7th. A few key draws, especially against Roskill Eden, meant we needed to beat our own AISC D3B team and hope other results would go our way to make the top 6 of the competition.
The stage was set on AISC Club Day for one of the biggest matches outside of KBT (King's Birthday Tournament), AISC D3A vs AISC D3B. The match was fast-paced, hard-fought, and played in great spirit. AISC D3A came out on top with a 2–1 win over the younger AISC D3B side. Unfortunately, the earlier dropped points, especially the draw against Roskill Eden, came back to haunt us, and we fell agonisingly short of the top 6 by only 2 points.
Minor Championship
Refocused and determined, the team threw themselves into the minor competition with belief and attitude. We edged Southern Red 2–1, then backed it up with another gritty 2–1 win over Waitakere. At this point, AISC D3A, Waitakere, and University were all level on points at the top of the table.
A tough 2–0 loss to University left us chasing goal difference, with Waitakere six goals ahead. The lads responded with a 3–0 win over Grammar, setting up a must-win final game against Western, needing both victory and six goals to reach the final.
Despite a 0–0 first half, Sanjay's halftime talk fired up the team, and we slotted in four goals in the third quarter. Sadly, that's where the scoring stopped, and we missed the final by just two goals on differential.
Final Reflections
While the season didn't end as we hoped, the lads showed incredible fight, spirit, and commitment. Every match was played with pride, and the team embodied what it means to wear the AISC jersey.
A Big Thank You
The team would like to extend a special thank you to Chiman (Sammy) Kesry for always making himself available to umpire our games. Your commitment meant a great deal to the lads throughout the season.
A quick mention also to Bharat (Buzz) Parbhoo, the oldest playing member of our club, whose efforts and support over the years have been invaluable. And finally, to Manhar (Morris) Patel for his tireless support off the field, your dedication to the team has never gone unnoticed. All three of you have consistently turned up, year after year, and we greatly appreciate your contributions and loyalty to the D3A team.
Manoj (Mannie) Patel
Coach / Player
Division 3B Hockey Report
What a season. From the first pushback to the final whistle, our D3B squad brought energy, drama, and plenty of entertainment to the turf. Every game had its share of big hits, flying goals, and nail-biting moments.
Highlights of the Season:
Match-winner: Hitesh “Big Hits” Patel sealed a victory against Roskill in the final seconds.
Return of pace: Slick Rick (Raj Patel) back at full speed, leaving defenders in the dust.
Brick wall: Goalkeeper Prashant “The Wizard” Patel pulling off a miracle slide save against Southern.
Iron Man: Rohan Patel shutting down attacks with rock-solid defence.
Tough luck: Vinesh “Chaklu” Patel, collecting bruises (and stitches!) but never backing down.
Unsung engine: Milan “Millz” Kanji covering every inch of turf, even after his shoes gave up.
Silent assassin: Ketan “Gully” Nathoo gliding past defenders unnoticed.
Showman: John Stirling trapping the ball (and spectators’ hearts) with style.
D3B wrapped the season with 8 wins, 5 losses, and 3 draws, finishing 4th overall after the new no-semis format.
Every player stepped up. Defenders who stood like brick walls, midfielders who never stopped running, and forwards who turned scraps into celebrations. Even the bench made an impact with the hype (and the endless Vicks).
But this wasn’t just hockey. Rain, cold, dodgy ump calls - our fans rode with us every step, louder than any whistle. Families, mates, sideline banter: unmatched.
Here’s to the sweat, the bruises, and the memories. Next year? Same turf. Same fire. Louder roar. Watch this space.
Thank You:
Coaches: Raj “DJ Rick NZ” Patel & Dipesh “DJ Dipstick AU” Parag
Leaders: Captain Milan Kanji & Vice-Captain Rohan Patel
Sponsors & Social Club for keeping us going
Every player and supporter of AISC D3B
Here’s to a season of sweat, grit, and memories. Next year? Same turf, same fire, even louder roar.
Vinay Parbhoo
D3B Team Manager
D3A vs D3B Team Group Photo
2026 Hockey Fees Update
We are pleased to confirm the Executive Team has decided to utilise the existing Player HQ online platform that all Hockey Clubs across New Zealand use. Many of you will be familiar with this system, as all players register through this portal. Going forward, players will register and pay their fees at the time of registration, which is before the first AHA match. This will enable us to streamline this process and minimise the administration required at present. We will provide our coaches and managers with an outline of the new method for the 2026 season.
85th Jubilee Book Update
We have just received from our publishers a complete PDF file document of our book to finally check through for any last minute errors/omissions to fix, Vinod, Jayanti, Deepak and Nuggin have an enviable gruelling task to check a total of 480 pages to be completed this week from 15th August then to be sent off to the publishers for the next final stage of printing to be carried out in China. I hope to receive this book by October this year, with 350 copies to be delivered to us. We are in the early stages of organising a formal launch of the book early next year. We will have details regarding this special event's promotion, date, and location.
Nuggin Lala
AISC Life Member – Jubilee Book Co-ordinator
AISC Awards – Don't Forget To Send In Your Nomination!
We would like your Life Member, Presidential, and Club Service Award nominations. All nominations must be provided in writing and be submitted to secretary@aisc.org.nz by 30 September 2025.
Please complete the information below:
Profile:
Name of nominee
Address:
Contact No:
History: The details include the nominees' activities, their duration with the club, and the period of service to the club.
If applicable, one or all of the following must be completed as fully as possible. Insert dates, duration, and level for each activity.
Player:
Coach:
Manager:
Umpire:
Administrator: club, and affiliated associations:
National and International Representative:
Social service provider:
Additional comments in support of the nominee: (such as achievements for the club and personal honours)
Award for which this nomination is submitted: (Select from one of the following)
Award (1) Club Service Award
Award (2) Presidential Award
Club Service Award
Eligibility criteria
This award is intended to provide encouragement and recognition for individuals who have volunteered their services to the club, beyond the role of parents or supporters.
Minimum service required for this award is a total of 5 years of any of the following:
5 years coaching or managing cumulatively at junior, youth or senior level, (basis 2 years junior, 2 years youth, 1 year's premier grade)
5 years cumulative as a Premier 1 level player or umpire at the same level
5 years cumulative Social service provider
5 years cumulative as a club Administrator
Presidential Award
Eligibility criteria
This award recognises long service (minimum of 10 years) by individuals who continue to support and serve the club through their passion and commitment. The capacity shall include either or any of the following roles: coaching, managing or providing social service work, administration or premier level representative honours at national, NZISA or International level, (most likely after receiving the above Club Service award, although not a pre-requisite).
A requirement for this award is an additional service period, in addition to that of the above Club Service award, and shall comprise any of the following:
5 years cumulative as a coach or manager at any level.
5 years cumulative social service provider.
5 years as player, administrator, umpire or manager at National premier, NZISA, and International representative.
5 years additional as a club Administrator.
Life Membership Award
General eligibility criteria
The purpose of conferring life membership upon an individual is to recognise long and significant voluntary service, in the running or development of the club and or if the individual has brought credit to AISC and thereby contributed to the advancement and objectives of the club. The minimum service period for consideration in this award category shall exceed 15 years of voluntary service.
The position is an honorarium; the individual should be worthy and humble to be recognised by his peers.
No monetary payment or donation to club funds shall be regarded as a consideration whatsoever as a requisite for nomination.
The nominee generally would need to meet the requirements outlined below:
A player/coach/manager who has made a long and significant contribution to the sport, at club, national or international level, generally enhances the club's profile.
An individual who has provided long and significant social services, i.e. catering, fundraising, etc, at club-organised, social and sporting events.
An administrator who has made a long and significant contribution to the promotion and advancement of the club, i.e., president, chairperson, secretary, treasurer, committee director, club delegate, etc.
Over time, an individual has provided services in all of those areas mentioned above and is considered to have made a significant contribution.
An individual who demonstrates exemplary leadership, role modelling, good demeanour and general attitude
Name of Nominator:
Address:
Contact number:
The information submitted is accurate and can be verified.
Signature:
Seconded by an executive member of the committee.
Name:
Address:
Contact phone:
Signature:
Date of submission:
Signed by secretary on receipt:
Acceptance and Deliberation Process
Nominations submitted shall be checked, verified and signed off by an elected nomination scrutinising committee (NSC), to confirm that the nomination and information meet the criteria for the award. The NSC can seek additional information. If the information is correct and the nomination is appropriate for the award, the NSC will forward the nomination to the executive committee for final deliberation. If the nomination is not accepted, the nomination will lapse, and the nominator shall be advised of the outcome. The executive committee's role shall be to discuss and generally formalise acceptance of the nomination and propose a resolution for approval by a general meeting by a majority vote. However, if mitigating circumstances arise precluding the nomination from proceeding, the executive committee, by majority vote, may decline the nomination, and it will lapse. The nominator is to be advised of the outcome. The club secretary is to notify the nominee of the final decision. The executive committee's decision for that nomination shall be final.
The nomination will be presented to the next general meeting for final ratification if approved.
AISC Event Calendar
We would love to see you at some of the upcoming events:
Junior Prizegiving: Saturday 13th September - Avondale College
Senior Prizegiving: Saturday 4th October - Ellerslie Football Club
NZISA Golf Tournament – Sunday 19th October in Christchurch at the Russley Golf Club.
AISC AGM – Sunday 30th November 2025 – Venue & Time To Be Confirmed
This wraps up our August update. Should you have any questions or queries, please feel free to reach out to any of our Executive team or contact us at info@aisc.org.nz
Warm regards,
AISC Executive Team