TRG Guest: Jesse McCartney from Belong in Hockey

Belong in Hockey. Sport, Community, and a Whole Lot of Heart

We were delighted to welcome Jessie McCartney to our Wednesday morning meeting to share the story behind Belong in Hockey. And what a story it is.

Belong in Hockey is an award-winning, Toowoomba-based initiative founded by Jessie and Elizabeth Laverty that uses the power of sport to support refugees, particularly Yazidi families, as they settle into life in our community. Through weekly training sessions — now expanded to include Saturdays — the program builds far more than hockey skills. It fosters confidence, community connection, and even English proficiency along the way.

It's the kind of initiative that reminds you just how much a simple game can change lives. Jessie's passion for the people behind the program was infectious, and it's no surprise that Belong in Hockey has earned award recognition for the incredible work they do.

We left the meeting feeling genuinely inspired by what Jessie and Elizabeth have built right here in Toowoomba.

If you would like more information regarding the program, please email Jessie, the Hockey Manager, at hockeymanager@toowoombahockey.com.au

Toowoomba Referral Group

IA55093

ABN 45 803 702 579

Queensland 4350

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