Ruby Harris’ pain at Queensland side not retaining the under 18 national hockey title cushioned

Ruby Harris’ pain at her Queensland side not retaining the under 18 national hockey title was cushioned following recognition as a shadow player for the Australian side playing in the Youth Olympic Games qualifying tournament in PNG.

Corinda's Ruby Harris. (AAP Image/Renae Droop)

Ruby Harris’ pain at her Queensland side not retaining the under 18 national hockey title was cushioned following recognition as a shadow player for the Australian side which is playing in the Youth Olympic Games qualifying tournament in PNG this week.

For the second successive year Harris, 16, was the leading goal scorer at the national titles, prompting acknowledgment from the national selectors.

“It is good to have my name there and be recognised by them,’’ Harris said.

The St Aidan’s Anglican Girls’ School student said despite her individual success, it was disappointing not to retain a title won for the previous four years by Queensland.

Corinda's Ruby Harris. (AAP Image/Renae Droop)

“We are not very good at losing because we are not used to it.

“Now we know what it feels like and we don’t want that again. It makes you want to try harder.’’

Harris has her grand mother to thank for introducing her to hockey.

Grandma did not know it at the time, but it was her urgings that directed Harris to the sport aged at aged around four. “I was always active and grandma said to put her into an active sport and hockey was perfect because it was a lot of running.’’ So she signed with the powerful Easts club and the rest is history.