Scotch College

Hockey club aims high, with confidence

Words: John Feddersen

The 2007 hockey season began last month, with Hawthorn Hockey Club holding high hopes for yet another successful season.

Andrew Aldons has joined the club as coach of the men’s division, and his experience and enthusiasm made an immediate impact on the club’s pre-season training program. Geoff Hills is again coach of the women’s division.

Last season the HHC was one of the most successful clubs in Victoria. The men’s First XI once again competed in Victoria’s top division, and for the second year running finished on top of the ladder. However, despite playing well in the final, the men weren’t able to cap off what was otherwise an ideal season. The women’s division also did very well in 2006, chalking up a premiership, while the junior club fielded almost 20 teams, making it one of the largest junior clubs in Victoria.

Scotch continues to be well represented at both junior and senior levels of the club. Andrew Hodder (’87), Charles Tulloch (’97), John Feddersen (’00), Dylan Best (’03), Cam Johnston (’03) and David Jenkin (’03) are all members of the Men’s State League 1 squad. A number of current students take the field in the junior division, while the players appreciate Old Boy participation in managing and coaching the women’s division.

Last year for the first time in HHC’s 83-year history, both a male and female member achieved Australian selection. Claire Messent and Josh Hawes wore green and gold with the Hockeyroos and Kookaburras respectively, and both have realistic ambitions of representing Australia in Beijing next year.

HHC is always looking for new members. Enquiries can be sent via email to me at jfedd@bigpond.net.au