Norths dynamo setting example for future generation

NORTHS’ Ella White displays a maturity beyond her years on the path to a wealth of success in the sport.

DELIVERING THE GOODS: Ella White has been a key part of the Norths COVID Cup campaign. Photo: Nev Madsen

HOCKEY: If you looked up model clubperson in the dictionary, there’s a fair chance you’d see Ella White’s name.

The Norths player, still just 17-years-old, has shown a maturity beyond her years.

While most her age are focusing on their own games, White has been using her skills and expertise for the greater good of the club.

“Last year I coached an U11s Toowoomba team, I’ve coached Minkeys and Mods, and umpired as well. I’ve just tried to help whenever they’ve needed me,” she said.

“Some of the younger girls have called me in for a few tips, and I love the chance to give back, especially because Norths has given me so much.

“Norths is a family-oriented club and the culture is that everyone helps you out.

“I remember when I was young and saw the A-grade women playing I always wanted to be like them one day.”

White has done that in spades, cementing her spot in the top grade as well as securing a number of representative honours along the way.

She has competed in numerous Queensland sides, as well as playing her part for the Darling Downs in last year’s gold medal winning side.

Her success extends to the indoor version of the sport, where earlier this year she was chosen in the Australian U18s training squad.

Ella White (left) celebrates Queensland selection. Photo: Contributed

She said she is loving the opportunity to participate in both, and has a dream goal set firmly in her sights.

“It’s lucky that I love hockey, because I play it all year round,” she said.

“I’ve only been playing indoors for the last few years. It’s a really different dynamic but still very similar (to field hockey).

“With indoor you need to have really tight skills and make quick decisions.

“It’s been my dream for a long time to be a Hockeyroo.

“I’ve made a few teams which has made things easier. I’ve learnt a lot of new skills from coaches, but this year has made it a bit harder.

“There’s a lot of talented players in Toowoomba. Training is always high quality, and to establish little links in state teams is always special.

“It’s something that I’m trying to work towards, but I know that I have to work hard and take things one step at a time.”

The current focus is on this year’s COVID Cup campaign with Norths, with the side preparing for its third round clash tonight.

“I tried to keep my fitness up, as hard as it was at times to keep motivated,” White said.

“The quality is a lot better than I expected. It’s been a few months since we last played, but the quality has been good considering the lack of preparation.”

FIXTURES

A1 WOMEN: Newtown vs Past High at 6.20pm, Red Lion vs Norths at 8pm

A1 MEN: Red Lion vs Norths at 6.20pm, Newtown vs Past High at 8pm.

All games at Clyde Park tonight.

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