Tasmania to host international hockey tournament in May

MELBOURNE - Some of the world's best hockey players will converge on Hobart in May after Tasmania won the rights to host a four nations men's hockey tournament.

Backed by a $47,000 state government grant, Tasmania secured the event that will bring international teams to the state for the first time since 2011.

The world No 1 Australian Kookaburras will face off against New Zealand, South Korea and Pakistan, ranked 7, 8 and 9 in the world, respectively.

Tasmania's Premier Will Hodgman said the tournament would not only benefit the local economy, but also encourage young Tasmanians to be more active.

"Tasmania has a very proud hockey history and it's hoped that this will not only inspire but create the next champions, with training programs and clinics for children to be run as part of the week's events," he told the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC) on Thursday.

"It will increase the profile of sport (and) encourage activity and engagement especially by younger Tasmanians."

Hockey Australia's Cam Vale said the tournament would likely entice local and international visitors to the state, giving tourists the chance to see the number one ranked team.

"We are very keen to showcase the Kookaburras, who are ranked number one in the world," he said on Thursday.

"It's 10 international test matches, six of those involving the Kookaburras.

"It's huge for (Tasmania). This is one of the best venues in the country."

The event will run for nine days beginning on May 2 at the Tasmanian Hockey Centre in Hobart.