The 2022 Ric Charlesworth Classic squads have been finalised after an extensive draft process conducted by coaches, with this year’s talent pool providing a record number of elite-level hockey players to select from.

More than 220 of WA’s best hockey players nominated to go into this year’s draft, with coaches selecting a squad of 18 players and two development players each for their side, resulting in a total of 160 players who will hit the field at Perth Hockey Stadium at Curtin University come Saturday 26 March.

Chris O’Reilly, who will lead the Outbacks women’s side as Head Coach this year, says he is excited to see a blend of youth and established talent run out for all sides in 2022.

“There’s a good blend of senior and junior talent across all the sides this year – it will be exciting for the development of our players and we see this as a huge positive for WA hockey going forward,” O’Reilly said.

“This year’s tournament will be a great spectacle – I know that all sides have found that right mix of youth and experience, so it will be great to see those younger players shine within a format like this.”

Former Kookaburra and Breakers men’s Assistant Coach, Tyler Lovell, says he’s pleased to coach alongside some of the greats in 2022, with hopes that the added experience can take the Breakers to their first title win in the men’s competition.

“We’re really pleased with the side we put together this year – there’s some unbelievable talent, both young and old, for us to utilise,” Lovell said.

“It’s great to have Paul (Gaudoin) and Jeremy (Hiskins) coaching alongside myself – Paul will bring years of experience as a former coach of the Hockeyroos and Jeremy was an unbelievably talented striker for the Kookaburras.

“We’re just looking forward to having some fun out there and hopefully we can teach the guys some new tricks.”

The Ric Charlesworth Classic returns from Saturday March 26, with spectators in for high-quality action and entertainment on and off the field.

Entry to the Ric Charlesworth Classic is $5 with kids under 18 FREE.

WOMEN'S SQUADS

MEN'S SQUADS