Talent and leadership qualities adding up to success for this schoolboy

Eli Landsberg is making a big impression in hockey circles but his talents are not limited only to the turf. Read about his incredible achievements here.

Eli Landsberg in his Queensland kit at the state under-13 hockey training camp. Photo: Annette Andrews

Eli Landsberg has enjoyed success in each sport he has tried but it is with a hockey stick and touch ball in hand that he has truly excelled.

The 12-year-old was selected in two Queensland hockey teams and one state squad, as well as a state touch team last year.

And it’s not just his talent that shone through, it was also his leadership qualities with Landsberg often captaining many of the teams in which he played.

He was also school captain at St Anthony’s Catholic Primary School, where he was awarded the School Principal Award and, not surprisingly with such an impressive resume, Sportsperson of the Year.

When asked what the highlight of 2021 was, Landsberg said: “Just playing a lot of sport, giving everything a go, working hard and making teams.”

And he certainly made plenty. While it is hard to include every one, here is a synopsis of what the little champ did.

The other impressive aspect is that he was regularly one of the youngest in the teams.

Landsberg played Rockhampton schools hockey, touch, soccer and Aussie rules.

He represented the Rockhampton Redbacks under-12s at the Bundaberg Cup and Junior State Cup and was co-captain of the CQ Bulls who finished runners-up at the National Youth Championships.

He was co-captain of the Capricornia 10-12 years touch team which won the state title and the Capricornia 10-12 years hockey team which came second.

He went on to be named in the Queensland teams after standout performances at both those championships.

Landsberg was also selected in the under-13 Queensland hockey team and the Queensland under-13 indoor hockey squad.

Unfortunately, though, he didn’t get to don the maroon because all national championships were cancelled due to Covid.

Landsberg started his sporting career playing hockey in the under-5 division with Wanderers.

That game continues to be his first love.

“I probably like hockey a bit more than touch - but it wouldn’t be by much,” he said.

“I just feel like hockey suits me a bit more.”

Landsberg’s idol is local legend Jamie Dwyer, who played 326 games for Australia.

“I met him and he’s taught me stuff and made me want to strive to get to where he was at,” he said.