Penny Squibb set for Olympics Games debut after selection in Hockeyroos team announced this week

Tambellup’s Penny Squibb will make her Olympic Games debut this year after being selected in the Hockeyroos team for the 2021 Tokyo Olympics.

The WA defender was announced in a new-look 25-player squad last year before the Australian Olympic Committee announced yesterday their national hockey teams for the Olympics in July and August this year.

Squibb forced her way back into the national set-up last year and impressed at the recent Trans-Tasman series against New Zealand.

She has made 13 appearances for Australia and scored one goal.

The 28-year-old will be one of eight Olympic debutants in the Hockeyroos side, while seven players will compete in their second games.

Hockeyroos head coach and two-time Olympic champion Katrina Powell is excited about her team.

“There is a lot of talent in this group — a lot of potential, drive, enthusiasm and passion,” Powell said.

“So if we can harness all of that in what will be really tough conditions in Tokyo, you never know what can happen.

“There is some experience that both I and (assistant coach) Katie Allen can bring directly to the group.

“But everyone’s Olympic experience is really different, so these players need to be themselves and be authentic.

“Given the matches we’ve just played against New Zealand, and the different combinations on the field in each game, coupled with the team doing well, is an indicator of how difficult it was to pick this team.

“To have those names on the sheet makes Tokyo very real and I’m really excited about the opportunity that’s ahead of us.”

Squibb and the Hockeyroos will launch their campaign against Spain on July 25.