Croquet Australia has announced significant updates to the National Events Calendar from 2026, following a review by the Events Advisory Group.

Key changes include:

• New women’s Association Croquet invitational – The Jean Armstrong Cup – launching in 2026.
• New GC Over 60s event launching in 2027, aligned with WCF pathways.
• Removal of reduced entry fees for U21 and U25 Apprenticeship players in Open events.
• Association Croquet Open shortened to 5 days.
• U21 Gold Medal and Doubles discontinued, with a stronger focus on U21 Singles and coaching.
• National Ricochet events removed due to low participation.
• Women’s block removed from GC President’s 8s, with monitoring of women’s participation.
• GC Handicap Singles & Doubles removed from the national calendar.
• Introduction of event criteria requiring disciplines in at least four states to qualify nationally.
• Gold Medal events separated from Teams/Singles from 2027 to reduce workload.

CEO Sue Gliddon said the changes focus resources where participation is strongest, strengthen player pathways, reduce volunteer burden, and ensure financial sustainability.

A more detailed explanation can be found HERE