Albany hosts the stars of regional hockey for the 2022 Hockey Australia Country Challenge

The stars of Australian country hockey have arrived in Albany for the 2022 Hockey Australia Country Challenge.

The men’s and women’s captains gathered at the National Anzac Centre on Friday for introductions and a photoshoot before the action got under way on Saturday.

There are five States competing in this year’s Country Challenge — WA, NSW, Victoria, Queensland and South Australia — as well as men’s and women’s teams from the Australian Defence Force.

Queensland are the defending champions in the women’s division, while NSW hold the title in the men’s division.

The finals will start on Friday, culminating in the grand finals on Saturday afternoon.

Opening ceremony colour PAGES 16-17

Tournament coverage SPORT