Diana Dowdle elected Auckland Hockey’s 34th Life Member

Diana Dowdle of Howick Pakuranga Hockey Club (HPHC) was elected as one of our two newest Life Members at the AGM on Friday 2nd of May.

Diana Dowdle has been an integral part of the Howick Pakuranga Hockey Club (HPHC) since the mid-1990s, when her three sons joined the club. Her extensive involvement has included coaching at various levels, engagement in the junior committee since 2000, and several years of service as Chairperson. In 2008, Diana was elected as HPHC President, and her 17-year tenure in this role until February 2025 showcased exceptional dedication and leadership.

Under her guidance leading the Howick-Pakuranga Hockey Club, the largest hockey club in Auckland with 600 club members with 55 senior/youth/ junior teams, the club has witnessed significant development, particularly in player improvement initiatives. Notable achievements under her leadership include the establishment of the John Daniel Academy for specialised coaching, successful collaboration with local schools on the KiwiSport program, and the implementation of the HPHC Coaching Programme.

Diana’s leadership has led to remarkable on-field successes, with victories in the Auckland Premier Men’s Championship, the Premier Women’s Championships, Top Club, Top Men’s Club, and Intercity Premier Men’s Championship. Off the field, her guidance has fostered a strong sense of club spirit, evident in the well-received celebrations of the Club’s 40th anniversary in 2014 and 50th anniversary in 2024.

Additionally, Diana’s contributions extend beyond HPHC, as she is also a valuable member of the Hockey NZ Board since 2023. Her impact at HPHC has left an indelible mark on the club’s history.

Diana has held may posts within Club, School and Auckland Hockey. Diana’s many achievements include:

• Auckland Hockey Age group Representative Coach and Manager.
• Auckland Hockey Competition Advisory Group 2011-2015– including the establishment of Intercity Premier Hockey Competition.
• Served on AKH Club Council
• Auckland Hockey Association Umpires Working Group 2010-2011
• Auckland Hockey Service Award 2015
• HPHC Life Member 2012
• HPHC Service Award 2015 – recognising 10 years plus service to the club
• HPHC Chairperson Junior committee 2000-2008
• HPHC President 2008 to February 2025

Diana Dowdle (pictured centre), AHA’s 34th Life Member

Congratulations to Diana our your well deserved Life Membership!