Thundersticks' Rockliff ready to hit Hockey One head on

Renee Rockliff is one of many current Perth Thundersticks stars that began their hockey journey from a young age. 

The 23-year-old was part of the under-13 side which won a gold medal, on her home turf at Perth Hockey Stadium at Curtin University in 2012. 

And it’s her favourite hockey memory.

What’s come since is a flourished love for hockey, a whole new wealth of skills, talent and a decorated state-level career to show for it. 

The Victoria Park Xavier product began the love for the game at an early age through family ties.

“My brother played when I was three or four and I was dragged along by my parents,” Rockliff says.

“I tried many other sports but I wasn’t good at them, so I stuck with hockey.”

It’s a good thing she did - now stamping her name as one of the State’s most talented players.

Part of more than a handful of WA sides since those junior years, Rockliff has earned her fair share of memories in the black and gold. 

She says it’s something that never gets old.

“I feel lucky to have had so many opportunities to represent the State,” Rockliff says.

“It’s still a thrill to be able to get picked as an adult.”

The speedster’s most recent selection is her call up to the 2022 Perth Thundersticks squad for the Sultana Bran Hockey One League.

“It’s very exciting to be able to play some representative hockey after a couple of seasons without Hockey One,” she says.

“We have a very competitive squad, I’m looking forward to playing with the girls.”

As the tournament edges closer - preparations continue as the side hunts a gold medal and the top gong in Australian hockey.

But, there’s also focus on the Premier League as that looks to come to a close in the coming month.

Rockliff’s side Vic Park has been one of the most dominant sides in the competition for the past number of years, with a couple premierships to show for it. 

The side’s currently fourth in the standings, continuing its finals hunt for yet another year. 

It’s in this side Rockliff’s been able to play alongside one of the Hockeyroos most respected and experienced players, who’s been like a mentor. 

“I’ve been lucky to play club hockey with Jane Claxton who has been influential in my development as a midfielder, always pushing me to be my best,” she says. 

Rockliff believes the things she’s learnt through juniors, and at a State and club level are going to be the best asset she can bring to the Sultana Bran Hockey One League. 

“My speed and attacking style of play, which fits in well with how we’ve always been encouraged to play in WA sides,” she says.

Her love for hockey will continue into the future, both on and off the field. 

For any rising stars - she says there’s one thing to remember. 

“Hockey is a great sport because it needs skills, fitness, and the ability to work in a team,” she says. 

“Getting down to training and playing for your club is the best way to improve.”

The Perth Thundersticks need your support this Sultana Bran Hockey One League season, with our first double header to be played at Perth Hockey Stadium at Curtin University on Saturday 1 October. Show your support by purchasing a membership, securing your tickets or through our Perth Thundersticks Player Partnership Program. We want all of WA behind our elite-level men's and women's teams!