I started playing hockey back in 2001 as a field player in a defensive position. I was a half back playing on a grass field, where I represented my town and district across two associations. I had played other sports before field hockey, but I had never felt the thrill and enjoyment as when I played in my first season. Although I did not play many games in that first year, I knew that it was the sport for me.
When I moved to Melbourne in 2008, my new club required a goalkeeper for our newly formed women's side. I can remember our new side being ‘locked’ in a room so no one could escape; we needed a goalkeeper, someone who was willing take the position on permanently. At the time I reluctantly put up my hand to volunteer, but I can honestly say that it is one of the best decisions I have made. I still love the thrill and rush of being a keeper; Standing out on the field as my team's last line of defense. Being a goalkeeper is so much more than defending and stopping goals, it’s the support that you can provide your team.
So this blog is an insight into the game I am so passionate about, and the position that I feel I was born to do. I hope that maybe I can inspire others to play hockey and maybe even don a goalie helmet one day.
Check out these links to get your hockey career started!
Hockey Australia – National governing body for hockey
Hook into Hockey – children’s recruitment and training program
