Hockeyroos coach Katrina Powell praises talented young defender Tatum Stewart

A year after making her Hockeyroos debut Tatum Stewart has quickly established herself as a young star. Find out why the Aussie coach believes she has world class potential here.

Tatum Stewart in action for the Hockeyroos.

Sidelined by a knee injury – the skies may look a little grey for Tatum Stewart right now.

Hockeyroos coach Katrina Powell however has no doubt the young defender will leave no stone unturned in a bid to wear the green and gold of Australia once again.

“It was a bit of an unfortunate accident, just the way she turned on the field, but these things happen in sport,” Powell said.

“It would not be easy for her right now being on the sideline, we have a series (of games) coming up and seeing everyone playing would be difficult especially as it is an Olympic year.

“She is doing all the work, all her rehab and she is a very resilient athlete and has a strong, positive mindset.

“I have no doubt she will do everything in her power to return to action as fit and as strong as she was before the injury.”

Stewart’s injury rules her out of the Hockeyroos matches against China, Japan and Australia A in Perth later this month.

Instead Stewart will be hoping to be available for selection ahead of the Hockeyroos FIH Pro League tour in Europe in May.
Since making her Hockeyroos debut against China in March last year, Stewart has gone from strength to strength.

Tatum Stewart scores for Brisbane Blaze during the Hockey One League Women's semi-final Hockey Club Melbourne in 2022. Picture: Getty Images

At just 22 years of age, Stewart represents the bright future of Australian women’s hockey and Powell believes she has the mental and physical tools to establish herself as a truly world class defender.

“What impresses me most about Tatum is her maturity, commitment and willingness to do everything in her power to make her dream of playing for the Hockeyroos happen,” Powell said.

“She is fit, strong and already at such a young age has a lot of high performances habits that will help her now and in the future.

“Tatum wants to constantly learn and improve. She is committed to working hard to removing any weaknesses in her game.

“I think she has the physical and mental attributes to be potentially be a world class defender and an important part of the Hockeyroos for years to come.”

On the field Stewart has a few physical skills that put her in good stead as well.

“Her passing range is like her superpower,” Powell said.

“She has a fantastic ability to play a range of passes and pick out her teammates with the right one.

“Tatum is also proving to be an excellent drag flicker.”

Originally published as Hockeyroos coach Katrina Powell praises talented young defender Tatum Stewart