Canberra Hockeyroos Make History: Three Talent-Filled Players Selected for FIH Pro League Series in Hobart
Canberra's hockey scene is buzzing with excitement as three homegrown players, Alyssa Smith, Georgina West, and Georgie Smithers, have been selected to represent Australia in the FIH Pro League Series in Hobart. This marks a significant milestone for the region, as it's been a decade since the last Canberran was chosen for the national team.
Despite a steady production of Hockeyroos over the years, the ACT has been waiting for this breakthrough moment. The three players, all part of the Hockey ACT system, are set to make their Hockeyroos debuts at the upcoming matches in Hobart from February 20 to 25. Their selection is a testament to the region's hockey talent and the hard work put in by the players and coaches.
The trio's journey to the national team has been a challenging one, with each player having to sacrifice a lot of their time for training. Alyssa Smith, in particular, shared an emotional moment with her dad when she received the news of her selection. She expressed her excitement and the significance of the opportunity, stating, 'It's a chance to prove why we sacrifice so much of our time to train. Chasing the dream has been quite chaotic, so this means a lot to me and to my family, as well as young players in the ACT.'
The ACT Academy of Sport players have already made their mark at the junior level, with an impressive showing at the World Cup in Chile last year. Additionally, the women have experience in professional hockey, playing for the Canberra Chill in recent years. However, their first senior call-up is a significant step, and the players are eager to make their mark.
Georgina West, for instance, shared her excitement, saying, 'I still can't believe my dream is coming true and the opportunity I've been given. This is my third year in Canberra, and being here has helped grow my confidence and my hockey. I wouldn't be where I am without the coaches we have here. Hopefully, I can make them proud.'
The three players have all come through the Hockey ACT system, and their selection is a reward for their hard work and dedication. The Hockeyroos will play a total of four matches against China and Spain in the series, and a strong performance will be crucial if the trio are to secure a permanent spot in the team ahead of the 2026 World Cup.
The selection of these three players is a proud moment for the entire hockey community in Canberra, and it highlights the strength of the local pathway and the opportunities available for athletes to reach the highest level of the sport.
