Heath Ogilvie signs off from international Indoor scene

The transition of Australia’s next crop of men’s Indoor hockey stars has continued with Heath Ogilvie announcing his retirement from the international arena.

The 30 year old, who represented Australia at the past two FIH Men’s Indoor World Cups and was part of the squad for next year’s edition in Belgium, has made the difficult decision to step away from the national setup and international competition.

Heralding from Wollongong in New South Wales, and playing his Hockey locally at Moorebank-Liverpool HC and for the University of Wollongong, Ogilvie first made his debut for the Australian Indoor team in 2015.

He competed alongside his two brothers, Kurt and current Kookaburra Flynn at the 2015 Indoor World Cup before captaining the team to an impressive fourth place finish in 2018.

“Some of the highlights during my time representing Australia would be playing alongside my two brothers at the Indoor World Cup, as well as what we were able to achieve in 2018,” said Ogilvie.

“Reaching the Semi Finals and going down 2-1 to Austria far outweighed external expectation. I put the result down to the hard work we put into the lead up to the World Cup and there was just a good feeling within the group as to what we could achieve.”

“Captaining that 2018 team and the feeling of playing with some of my best mates in that arena atmosphere that only Germany can produce was something I will never forget and certainly will miss being part of. I will also cherish the opportunity I had to represent my country in front of family and friends as something special to me."

In signing off, Ogilvie also passed on his best wishes to the Australian group that will compete on the world stage in Belgium next year.

“Ahead of the next Indoor World Cup, I wish Steve, Liam, Ben, Leigh and the guys who are selected the best of luck in Belgium,” said Ogilvie.

Australian Indoor Men’s Coach Steve Willer paid tribute to Ogilvie as a outstanding Indoor hockey player, leader and role model.

“Heath has always given everything on and off the court for his country and in his passion for Indoor Hockey,” said Willer.

“He has made significant contributions to the Australian Men’s Indoor Hockey Team and all of its players since he joined the team.

“I have no doubt that for many players and coaches, Heath will continue to be someone they learn from as he continues to participate in the Australian Indoor Hockey Festival.

“His experience and personal character will be deeply missed from our next Indoor Hockey World Cup campaign.

“I thank Heath for your outstanding contribution to Australian Indoor Hockey and we wish him all the best for the future and the birth of his first child.”

Ogilvie plans to continue to put his hand up for selection in the New South Wales team for the National Indoor Hockey Carnival.