Tracey Hardie-Jones still gets goosebumps every time she pulls on the green and gold and she will have plenty more chances when she represents Australia at the European Cup in August.
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The Dubbo hockey icon has just returned from the Trans-Tasman tournament against New Zealand and her strong form there was what secured her call-up for the international event that will be played at the Netherlands.
Hardie-Jones’ team narrowly lost their series to New Zealand on goal difference, after both sides finished with a win, a draw and a loss but her performance in the defensive midfield was outstanding.
“We always knew it was going to be a really tough contest against New Zealand and it was a really close series. It was a very close tournament and there was just one goal difference between the two,” he said.
There were six Australian masters teams taking on their traditional rivals in the Trans Tasman series, and the team for the European Cup was selected from those sides.
“It was a real honour to be chosen for the European Cup. I’m really happy to have the opportunity to go over and compete in Europe, especially when it is being hosted by the Netherlands, who are such a force in hockey,” Hardie-Jones said.
“Our team is made up of women from all over Australia, there are four from NSW and the rest come mostly from the ACT, Victoria and Queensland, and they are a variety of ages.”
Hardie-Jones is no stranger to representing Australia but said she still finds it special and doesn’t take it for granted.
“In New Zealand hearing the national anthem before a game made it special. I still get goosebumps when it is playing,” she said.
The tournament takes place between August 7 and August 20 preceded by a three-day training camp for the Australian team. Participating countries include Netherlands, Scotland, Wales, Germany and Ireland.
The hosts are expected to be one of the frontrunners but Australia will also fancy their chances.
Hardie-Jones said based on Australia’s form at the recent World Cup in Canberra, they should be competitive.
In a bid to have all players prepared, Hockey Australia has given them a strict training program.
“I have been back two weeks and I have been working on a training program and I have a diary I have to fill out and there is fitness testing that has to be completed,” she said.
“We also have drills and position plays we have to work on to ensure we are ready for the contest.
“To help me with that I have been working down at the hockey fields with Len Wilkinson and also with Red City Gym.”
