Hockey WA Under-25 Men’s Tour of India fosters cultural exchange & commitment to international partnerships

Western Australia’s top male hockey players recently embarked on an exciting tour of India, blending international competition with cultural exchange.

Organized by Hockey WA in partnership with the Sports Authority of India (SAI), the tour built on the success of previous tours to Perth.

Part of Hockey WA’s Asian Engagement Strategy and a new Memorandum of Association with Hockey India, the tour invited players to train and compete at India’s renowned National Centres of Excellence (NCOE).

Upon arrival, the team was warmly welcomed at SAI Bengaluru with a traditional Karnataka ceremony, showcasing India’s rich culture and hospitality.

This set the stage for a tour that seamlessly combined elite sports training with cultural immersion.

The players explored the world-class facilities at the SAI Netaji Subhas Southern Centre, including cutting-edge synthetic turfs and a state-of-the-art Sports Science Centre.

They participated in joint training sessions with athletes and coaches from NCOE locations in Bengaluru, Lucknow, Sonipat, and SAI Shakti, sharpening their skills through collaborative efforts.

On the field, the team started strong with a commanding 5-2 win over SAI NCOE Lucknow.

In a thrilling follow-up match against SAI NCOE Bengaluru, the game ended in a 2-2 draw before Bengaluru clinched a 3-2 shootout victory.

Beyond the pitch, cultural tours added depth to the experience, offering players a closer look at India’s vibrant heritage.

This balance of sport and culture provided a holistic development opportunity, enhancing both athletic and personal growth.

This partnership with Hockey India and SAI is a pivotal step in nurturing future hockey stars, underscoring Hockey WA’s commitment to building international connections and providing its athletes with world-class opportunities.

HOCKEY WA INDIA TOUR GROUP

Players

• Angus Adamson
• Hamish Adamson
• Luke Anderson
• Sam Ashton
• Max Baynam
• Scott Caporn
• Ky Fisher
• Oliver Higgins
• Harrison Keymer
• Jeremy Mayne
• Mitchell McGrath
• Simon Naughtin
• Lawson Patten-Williams
• Marshall Puzey
• Joshua Scanlon
• Cooper Stephens
• Matt Van Selm

Off-Field Team

• Tim Geers
• Stuart Van Selm
• Shayley McGurk-Davy