Wilson’s time to shine as Squibb’s dream cut short

Perth Thunderstick Georgia Wilson has replaced team-mate Penny Squibb in the Hockeyroos’ 2020 Tokyo Olympic squad just days before the start of competition.

Squibb’s Olympic dream came to an end with the defender suffering a leg injury during the Hockeyroos’ final training sessions in Darwin. 

Hockeyroos Head Coach Katrina Powell and the team’s medical staff gave Squibb until as late as possible to prove her fitness, but she was forced to pull out ahead of the team’s departure for Tokyo. 

Wilson replaces Squibb in the side and joins the Hockeyroos heading to Tokyo ahead of their opening match against Spain on July 25 – her first Olympics appearance. 

Hockey WA CEO Fabian Ross says it was a bittersweet moment for hockey in the state.

“It’s devastating to see Penny succumb to an injury so close to the Olympics,” Ross says. “She has worked incredibly hard to reach this stage and it is heartbreaking for her to suffer this misfortune days out from the Games. We wish her all the best in her recovery; I’m sure she will come back bigger and stronger and continue to perform at the highest level for our Perth Thundersticks and Hockeyroos teams.

“There is now a great opportunity for Georgia and she goes to the Olympics with the support of Western Australia. We’re excited to see Georgia pull on the green and gold and all of the state wishes her the best of luck heading into an exciting period in her career.”

All of the Hockeyroos’ and Kookaburras’ matches of the Tokyo Olympics will be LIVE on 7Plus.