Perth Thundersticks announce 2025 Hockey One coaches

Hockey WA and the Perth Thundersticks are thrilled to reveal the coaches that will lead the Men’s and Women’s teams in 2025.

Stephanie Andrews has been appointed the new Head Coach of the Women’s team, while Stephen ‘China’ Davies will return to the helm of the Men’s team for the 2025 Liberty Hockey One season.

Following an incredible undefeated season in 2024, the Perth Thundersticks Women’s side enters a new chapter under the leadership of Andrews – who steps into the head coach role after playing a key part in the team’s recent success as an assistant coach.

“It’s a privilege to now lead the Women’s team,” she said.

“Phil Hulbert along with Emily Halliday and Ashleigh Nelson and all the coaches and players involved have done an outstanding job of getting the team into a consistently competitive space with the clear enjoyment that has emanated from the group and I look forward to continuing to build on that.”

Andrews becomes the first female head coach of the Perth Thundersticks in the Hockey One era – a milestone she’s proud of, not just for herself but for the WA hockey community.

“I am just really proud to be given the opportunity,” she said.

“I really hope that it inspires other women to continue to coach in our WA hockey community, whether that is at club or state level.

“We have some amazing women in our WA hockey community coaching that do a lot of work, and I hope to play a small part in inspiring other women to jump into the challenge of coaching.”

Reflecting on last season’s success, Andrews credits the team’s growth, belief and unity.

“Last year really was a reward for the work done over the last three years under the guidance of Phil Hulbert and those who played a part,” she said.

“The most special thing about the group was how much enjoyment everyone had together and I look forward to continuing that as it is those bonds that last a lifetime.

“It is really difficult to win championships so it’s important we stay true to what makes this team so special and continue to build on the work done and the belief the group has developed.”

On the Men’s side, Davies returns to lead the team after a strong 2024 season that saw the Thundersticks finish fourth and narrowly miss a Grand Final appearance.

“I am most excited to watch the evolution of the group as we move forward,” he said.

“The group will no doubt look different again and we will need to improve to be competitive at this level but the idea of where we can take it is really exciting.”

Davies pointed to several key moments from last season as turning points in the team’s journey.

“When we first saw our improved home change rooms was amazing – there was a real sense of home and belonging and it gave the group a lift,” he said.

“Also being in Tasmania for the Finals and seeing how close we came to the championship was enlightening.

“That experience will give us great confidence heading into 2025.”

Looking ahead, Davies is focused on raising the team’s intensity and honouring the rich legacy of WA hockey. “WA has the greatest legacy in Australian hockey,” he said.

“To be part of trying to elevate us back to the top is a privilege.

“Our goal is to leave the team in a better place for the players lucky enough to wear the shirt after us.”