Seven Bunbury hockey players picked for Western Australia's Under 13 boys and girls' sides

Luke Blee, Toby Blee, Noah Cartledge, Charlie Johnston, Jonah Lincoln, and Blake Murdoch will join hockey players from around the state in Hobart from October 4 to 10. 

Bunbury Cathedral Grammar School student and Boyanup player Emma Steggman was picked for the U13 Girls’ line-up. 

Hockey WA’s U13 Junior Development program kicked off in November 2017, with more than 450 kids putting their skills to the test. 

After being nominated, the athletes were all placed into a pathway. 

They took part in training sessions, carnivals, and a series of tough trials. 

Following the third and final trial session, 32 boys and 32 girls were chosen for the state teams. 

“We did a lot leading up, there were lots of selection camps and training sessions,” Jonah said.

Charlie described it as a “process of elimination”, adding: “Each week, there would be a training session and trial in Perth and there would be less people each time.” 

With 64 players being selected overall, two boys and two girls’ sides from Hockey WA will face off against teams from around the country. 

Emma said she was eager to travel, play hockey against different teams, and be a part of the experience. 

“I’m looking forward to making a lot of memories,” she said. 

Noah said he was excited to be playing alongside fellow Marist teammates Luke, Toby, and Blake whilst representing WA. 

“It feels really good, and it will be exciting to go away with these guys,” he said. 

“It’s pretty exciting and we’re looking forward to going over to Tasmania.

“I am really proud to be representing the state.” 

Noah, Luke, Toby, and Blake love the game, and urge young hopefuls around Bunbury to give it a shot. 

“It’s a fun game, I come down and play with my mates,” Luke said. 

“I like the carnivals when we get to play as a team.” 

Visit hockeywa.org.au for more details about the event and hockey in the state.​

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