Dynamic Hockeyroos chase golden goal at Commonwealth Games

Commonwealth Games Australia has announced the 18 athletes who will represent Australia in women’s hockey at next month’s Commonwealth Games in Birmingham.

The Hockeyroos team that will be out to go one better following a silver medal in 2018 features 12 Commonwealth Games debutantes.

At the other end of the spectrum, Jane Claxton and Brooke Peris will compete at their third Commonwealth Games.

Joining Claxton and Peris in the squad from the silver medal-winning team at the Gold Coast 2018 Games are Kaitlin Nobbs, Renee Taylor, Stephanie Kershaw and goalkeeper Jocelyn Bartram.

The debutantes include Greta Hayes, Courtney Schonell, Mariah Williams, Amy Lawton, Rosie Malone, Karri Somerville, Georgia Wilson, Aleisha Power and Penny Squibb, while Claire Colwill and Shanea Tonkin, who only broke into the Hockeyroos squad this year, have also been named.

“I am thrilled to be selected for the Commonwealth Games and feel excited, albeit slightly daunted, to play with and against some of the greatest hockey players in the world,” said Colwill, who at 18 is the youngest member of the team.

“The Commonwealth Games brings joy, inspiration and community to those competing, officiating and spectating. Having the opportunity to represent my country with pride is an unparalleled experience, so I cannot wait to pull on the green and gold.”

Hockey Australia CEO David Pryles said the Hockeyroos would be supported to the hilt as they set out to win a fifth gold medal from seven Commonwealth Games appearances.

“It’s a huge honour to represent Australia at any time, let alone a major event such as the Commonwealth Games,” said Pryles.

“All of Australia will be watching and supporting them from back home and we wish the team every success.”

See the team list and read the full story on the Commonwealth Games Australia website.