Rising Cairns hockey stars earn selection for Queensland’s national championship team

The state selection of two under-18s players and the inclusion of one shadow player has provided Cairns Hockey Association officials another reason to smile this summer.

THE state selection of two under-18s players and the inclusion of one shadow player has provided Cairns Hockey Association officials another reason to smile this summer.

Jayden Atkinson and Matthew Reichardt were on Tuesday announced as part of Queensland’s team for the Australian Men’s U18 National Championships.

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Atkinson, who plays for South Cairns, and Brothers goalkeeper Reichardt compete at the national championships in Hobart, Tasmania, from April 9 to 17.

Phoebe Nixon was named a shadow player for the state under-18s women’s team.

Their selections cap a successful month for CHA players, after eight of 11 triallists were picked for Queensland’s under-15s teams (six players, two shadows).

Stingers star Phoebe Nixon (orange) was named a shadow for Queensland’s under-18 women’s team for the national championships. PICTURE: JUSTIN BRIERTY

Regional coaching director David McNeil said the players’ commitment allowed them to perform at their best during the trials.

“We congratulate the players and the coaches on their selections — they were able to give themselves a real shot through a strong preparation program and commitment to being at their best at the selection trials,” McNeil said.

“Cairns Hockey is proud of our current Talent Pathways Program which provides a strong platform for future success.

“Preparation is never easy this time of the year in FNQ which make these results outstanding.”

Originally published as Rising Cairns hockey stars earn selection for Queensland’s national championship team