The theft took place some time between February 14 and 21. Six of the eight sprinkler systems at the ground were damaged, with copper piping and industrial-sized sprinkler heads removed.

This has rendered the synthetic turf unplayable for more than 200 junior and senior players, as it is designed to be watered for an hour before playing.

The association has only been up and running again since September after a two-year absence, and this is not the first time it has been targeted.

Prior to Christmas, two rolls of turf, metal piping and goalie equipment were stolen from the complex. On that occasion, the perpetrators gained entry through the clubhouse roof.

“They don’t realise how it affects us – we’ve just got kids interested again and now the fields are unusable,” said kids’ coordinator Carola Wright.

“It’s so deflating, after all that effort. The competition was really gaining momentum.”

Cessnock City Council’s recreation services manager, Nicole Benson, said council will be working with the hockey club to ensure the equipment is replaced and their competition is up and running again as soon as possible.

Council estimates the cost of replacing the stolen equipment will be about $5000.

“This type of vandalism really affects the community; the people at the hockey club are all volunteers, and it’s very disappointing, both for the club and for council,” Ms. Benson said.