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Pair ply trade on big stage

Michael TraillNarrogin Observer
Blight in action.
Camera IconBlight in action. Credit: Australian Country Men's and Women's Hockey/Facebook

UGSHA’s Chloe Blight and Liam Sweeney have returned home heroes after representing Australia in December.

Blight and Sweeney travelled to Fiji with the Australian country under-21 squads for the Fiji Invitational Series.

Both the men’s and women’s squads faced off against Fiji’s national sides and an Invitational XI, comprised of the Pacific nation’s best hockey players who couldn’t quite make their nation’s first XI cut.

Sweeney and his teammates of Venom, the Australia Country under-21 men’s side, went undefeated in the tournament and claimed a 3-2 victory against Fiji’s national team to win the Hector Trophy.

Sweeney with his Venom team mates.
Camera IconSweeney with his Venom team mates.

Blight and the Australia Country under-21 women’s side, the Wattles, could not replicate the success of their male counterparts, losing the Tai Trophy decider in the final minutes.

The Wattles managed a 4-2 record during the series, which included a win against Fiji’s national side from their three matches.

Blight said it was a little daunting representing Australia for the first time.

“It was a bit daunting walking out wearing the yellow and green, you have to line up and sing the national anthem,” she said.

“Very exciting and nervous at the same time, but a very good experience.

She also said the experience will help with her hockey back home.

“Between WA and Australia we play completely different structures, that’s something you can definitely bring back,” she said

“Work rate and fitness is hugely important as well, that was interesting to see.”

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