SOME of the brightest hockey talents from Sunraysia competed across Shepparton and Bendigo at the recent Hockey Victoria Junior State Championships.
The Sunraysia Hockey Association (SHA) falls within the North West Lightning zone, which extends from Sunraysia to Shepparton and includes the Bendigo region.
The Under-12 division featured Hockey 5s, a modified, faster-paced variant of traditional field hockey with five players per team.
SHA players Ryan Woods and Jacques McKenzie represented the Lightning Boys, securing a bronze medal.
Piper Ellis, another SHA junior, played for the Southwest Eagles, finishing in ninth place.
The Under-14 girls’ team included standout goalkeeper Eva McKenzie, with the Lightning team finishing seventh.
The Under-14 boys’ team, comprising SHA players Mitchell Stenner, Callam Bickwith, Hamish Regan, Jamon Baird, and Lincoln Mercieca, demonstrated their skills in a challenging pool, ultimately placing eighth.
Notably, Stenner was selected into the state Under-14 academy squad for 2024 from which the state Victorian team will be chosen.
In the Under-16 girls’ division, SHA representatives Brea Wilson and goalkeeper Hanna Flentjar helped the Lightning team secure seventh place.
The Under-16 boys’ team, featuring SHA players Kayd Divola, Rory Ellis, Danil McKenzie and goalkeepers Jacob Gray and Victor Collins, faced tough competition but managed impressive victories, finishing fifth overall.
SHA’s impact extended beyond players, with Caleb Conner representing the association as the assistant umpire manager for the entire tournament.
Amber Baird showcased her expertise as a technical official, overseeing numerous games.
Danil McKenzie umpired during the Under-12 Hockey 5s competition, and Taj Flenjar did an outstanding job umpiring at the Shepparton grounds, including officiating gold medal matches.
Despite the current logistical setup, Sunraysia’s potential to host such tournaments is evident.
With the addition of two full hockey pitches, the region could vie for the opportunity to showcase its facilities and local talent on a larger stage.
The JSC Hockey Victoria tournament continues to be a vital platform for junior hockey players in Victoria, fostering competitive spirit and showcasing emerging talent across the state.
