Dual Olympian set to help region’s hockey goalkeepers develop skills

A two-time Olympian will visit Toowoomba in January with a view to helping rookie and veteran players develop the skills they need to shine in one of the Garden City’s most popular sports.

Rangeville goalkeeper Lily Kemph makes a save during her side’s match against Past High. Picture: Nev Madsen.

HOCKEY: Dual Olympian Toni Cronk was always going to “give back to the game she loves” when she retired from hockey in 2013.

Cronk, who played in goal for the Hockeyroos at the Athens and London Games, planned to coach as a part-time gig but her plans quickly changed.

“When I retired I thought I’d do some (goalkeeper) coaching on the side,” Cronk said.

“It was always my intention to give something back to hockey, and I thought helping coach goalkeepers was the best way to do that because it’s a specialist position.

“It quickly became a full-time thing though, and I really enjoy it.

“I’ve worked with players as young as seven all the way to 60 years of age and every different level of experience and skill you can imagine from players completely new to position to those looking for state and Australian selection.”

With her clinics in high demand, Cronk focuses on imparting as much knowledge as she can no matter the player or venue.

“Every age group and skill level presents its own challenges,” Cronk said.

“How you work with a young player is obviously very different to how you work with someone older.

“With the younger ones, I tell them how they’re like a Transformer and that need to be fast and brave.

“My main focus is on imparting as much knowledge as I can during a session.

“Because I’m on the road a lot I aim give them as much I can in terms of things they can constantly work on to help them develop and improve.

“I also work with coaches so they can help their keepers develop as well.”

Cronk’s sessions from January 10-23 at Toowoomba’s Clyde Park are among a host of clinics being held by the Toowoomba Hockey Association.

Visit their Facebook for more details and to book.