NATIONAL titles are on the horizon again for local field hockey whiz kid, Tom Templeton, who has earned selection in the Victorian Under-16 state team that will travel to Hobart to compete during the April school holidays.
At only 14 years old, Templeton is the youngest member of the squad, but feels right at home, as he was earmarked for the squad after last season when he was a member of the Under-15 state team.
Templeton has played hockey since he was seven years old and is in love with the game, crediting his father, Heath, for his sound foundation in the skills required to perform at a high standard.
“My dad has coached me since I started playing, and I owe a lot to Mark Jarvis as well for his local coaching, but both dad and mum for all the encouragement and time they have given me”, Templeton said.
“Last year when I made the Under-15 state team, I was very nervous, as I was the smallest player by far.
“I am again this season, but I now know I can compete at this level and I’m looking forward to the carnival.”
Templeton is a midfielder and striker, but is yet to be given his role for the team for these titles, but it doesn’t matter to the young star, as he is just happy to be selected.
“The kids were really big last year, and I was a little intimidated but as I got going, I found I could match it with them,” Templeton said.
The commitment required from the squad is huge, with the Templeton family having to make two trips to Melbourne each week with training twice a week and any trial games also requiring travel to the State Hockey Centre, although mum (Julie) and dad (Heath) are old hands after having to do the same job last year.
The Hockey Victoria Academy program aims to transform talented young hockey players into top hockey players with the program taking place over the summer months.
The Academy takes great pride in the development of young players who aspire to play for Victoria, HC Melbourne and beyond.
“My goal is to play for Australia, as I want to go as far as I can with my hockey, but I’m excited to play in Hobart and I’m looking forward to the challenge.”
