Gabriel gears up for 400 celebration

Victoria Park Xavier Hockey Club and WA hockey stalwart Jason Gabriel ran out for his 400th Premier League appearance on the weekend in his side’s clash with YMCC, with the club set to celebrate their legend at home on Sunday. 

The prolific goal scorer has had a storied career, making his Premier League debut at 16-years-old after making the switch to hockey from soccer, as well as representing the state in the topflight for the Thundersticks. 

Touching on reaching the milestone, Gabriel is humbled to have shared the experience with some of the best players in Australia. 

“I feel very proud and humbled reaching this milestone,” Gabriel said. 

“I’ve been lucky and honoured to play at the elite level in WA, with and against some of the country’s best hockey players - it’s been a wonderful journey.” 

In such a storied career, two key highlights stand out for the Panthers gun – both involving silverware and the taste of success. 

"The 2008 and 2012 premierships stand out when I look back on my career at Victoria Park,” Gabriel said.  

“2008 broke a 12-year drought for the club, and 2012 was a very special team and group to be a part of. 

“If I had to pick, 2012 stands out as my favourite season of hockey, purely because of the mates I shared success with.  

“We lost the Grand Final the year before, and there was so much drive and commitment from the group to go one better, but more importantly, we had so much fun on and off the field.  

“The memories from both experiences I won’t forget and will cherish forever.” 

Although success shines at the forefront of Gabriel’s career highlights, the family made at Victoria Park Xavier Hockey Club will last a lifetime. 

“The club is my extended family, and that purely comes from the aura that you get from being around it, whether it be on a Saturday morning at Minkey, or Sunday afternoon at the Premier League games, and everything in between,” Gabriel said. 

“I’ve met some incredible people and made lifelong friendships, with many of my teammates who are some of my very best friends off the field.  

“I’ve always loved how the club makes you feel at home, and that has always been the strength of the Victoria Park Xavier Hockey Club.” 

Gabriel’s Victoria Park side will take on Hale at Perth Hockey Stadium at Curtin University from 3:30pm, Sunday 21 May. 

Can’t make it to celebrate? The match will be broadcast live and free on Live Hockey, with Gabriel set to be mic’d up during the clash in a first for the Premier League.