Six Western Australian hockey players recently helped Australia triumph at the 2018 Oceania Youth Olympic Games Qualifiers.
Tom Harvie, James Collins, Christian Starkie, Caitlin Cooper, Neasa Flynn and Jolie Sertorio were all selected to represent their country at the competition – which took place in Papua New Guinea – following impressive performances at the 2018 Under 18 Australian Championships.
The men’s side took out first place after defeating Vanuatu 16-0 in the final.
The women’s team claimed top spot after defeating Vanuatu 29-0 in the final.
Australia’s men had been vying for one of three qualifying spots while the women were in contention for one of two qualifying spots.
The competition was played in the Hockey 5’s format.
Hockey WA chief executive officer Stu Gilsenan commended the six athletes.
“I would like to congratulate all of State’s young athletes involved in the recent Youth Olympic Games Qualifiers on their success and wish them all the best for the future,” he said.
“They should all be very proud of what they’ve achieved in recent weeks.
“It is only right that we celebrate that and recognise all our athletes, coaches and support staff who have contributed – not only to this fantastic achievement – but to WA’s recent success at the Under 18 National Championships as well.”
Harvie was one of 14 WA athletes recently selected for the National Futures Program.
Mr Gilsenan said the initiative assisted its players’ ongoing development.
The 2018 Youth Olympic Games will take place in Buenos Aires, Argentina in October.
Read more:
