Contributed by Chris Rogers

Over 800 players, including many ex-internationals, are heading to the Padang for the Singapore Cricket Club (SCC) 16th International Hockey Sixes Tournament over this weekend. The confirmations of new teams, including one from Vietnam and others from Australia and United Kingdom, have seen the total number of men's and women's teams reach 40 and 22 respectively.

The SCC International Hockey Sixes has built a reputation for fast-paced action on the pitch and great hospitality off it. Each game is played on grass and lasts six minutes each way. The tournament has attracted many ex-World Cup and Olympic players from Asia, Europe and Australia over the years, and this year they are expected to return to compete for the Cup, Plate and Bowl title.

Chairman of the Tournament, Surjit Singh, who has over 18 years of experience organizing the tournament, commented: "This year's response has been simply overwhelming making this the biggest tournament since it started. It's great to see the quality of play improve over the years - this time expect to see international stars past and present from Malaysia, Australia, Singapore, Portugal and beyond.”

There are a number of other ´firsts' planned for the tournament this year. With an eye on strengthening hockey in the community, the finals of the SCC hockey 6's schools tournament will be played on the Padang on February 28th, 2010. 12 boys and 10 girls teams competed a week earlier and after some highly skillful competition, the girls finalists emerged as East View ´A' and St Theresa's Convent and the boys will see St Andrew's Secondary against Jurong West Secondary ´A'.

The SCC International Hockey Sixes tournament is also proud to announce the partnership with the Special Olympics (SO) Singapore to help raise funds for the less privileged athletes. During the weekend of the tournament, volunteers from the SO Singapore will be on hand to share their work and collect donations.

Spectators can expect a carnival-like atmosphere on the Padang, where a sheltered spectator stand will provide a relaxing place to see the action. In addition, food and beverages, souvenir items, massage, sports stalls and body tattoo services will be on hand to make it a memorable weekend.

The Guest of Honour at the finals on Sunday, 28th February, will be the Minister for Community Development and Sports, Dr. Vivian Balakrishnan. Admission is free in the Public Stands and the action starts from 8am and 8.30am on Saturday and Sunday, with the finals being played from 2pm onwards on Sunday.