Taste of top-level action for LGSHA contingent

Seven up-and-coming Lower Great Southern Hockey Association players excelled in the FHE Cup in Perth last week.

The competition, held annually, features junior talent from across the State, country and Asia-Pacific region, including sides from Japan, Singapore and Malaysia.

Representing the School Sport WA team 16s, Karel Cronje won gold against Japan.

After drawing 1-1 and 2-2 in regular and extra-time respectively, the SSWA team were crowned champions after scoring the golden goal in sudden death.

In goals, Erin Trotter represented the WA Regional All Stars 16s.

The WA Regional All Stars defeated the SSWA side 2-1 in the semifinals, before claiming silver against Malaysia, who won 2-0 in the gold-medal match.

Also representing the WA Regional All Stars 16s in the boys were Matt Steven and Oscar Latham.

Despite finishing second last, the cup gave Matt and Oscar a taste of what it is like to play against top-quality players from around Australia and overseas.

Tullah Gouldthorp and Amy Sandilands played for the WA Grey 15s side, finishing eighth overall in their division.

Brennan Doak represented WA Black 15s boys side, finishing fifth overall in the cup.

It was a strong statement from a side of 15-year-olds competing against the best 16-year-olds from around the country and overseas.