One name that has been tirelessly which operated at the heart of the weekly stage and that will first have to be mentioned has been removed from the beat. However the injury to one of the team’s most enthusiastic and fearless players is the end of an era for Australian hockey, and one that leaves supporters wondering how they will cope without their hottest player.
The Australian star was defined by his tireless fire, hard tactics and objectives in shaping games from end to end on Monday night. When on the ball, driving on defenders, creating set-up opportunities or when under the ball and pressing on an attacker, he was always full of intensity, making each game fun.
A reputation as a never-say-die player developed for the player over the years. Their spirit and skill was too much to break down and made them a favourite team of any in the country and a difficult team to play. Their good performances were to encourage the younger players and to show the competitive spirit that Australian hockey has sold itself in the international arena.
The hard-to-tell-by-numbers absence will be felt. At times, particularly on Monday nights, any performance by the Australian was met with the anticipation of flying kicks, genius or ‘Game Changing’ runs. For many fans that excitement became a part of the weekly experience in the game of hockey.
Now the Australia coaching staff will seek to also give new blood a bigger role. It would be difficult to replicate the leadership, energy and consistency they delivered last season, but there are experienced players enough to make sure they aren’t missing out on the addition of any of these contributors to the squad. The transfer also gives a chance as well to young guns to make their mark at the big stage.
The goodbye is poignant to supporters as it marks the end of an enjoyable era. Goals and wins were just scratching the surface; you could be damn sure this player did more than that. This was indeed the case through passion, commitment and fearlessness.
Hockey in Australia will take another step forward, and that’s when you’ll see top-class action on Mondays. But they will definitely notice a lack of the dynamism and intensity that is one of the sport’s most promising Australian players with him in front of them every week.
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