Hobart hockey junior finals: U15 girls DiamondBacks V North-West Graduates, U18 boys Derwent v DiamondBacks players to watch

Some of the rising stars of Tasmanian hockey will be on show as the Mercury and Hockey Tasmania brings a live stream of underage club grand finals in Hobart.

Diamondbacks Giselle Fernandez, left, in action against OHA. Picture: LUKE BOWDEN

Some of the rising stars of Tasmanian hockey will be on show as the Mercury and Hockey Tasmania brings a live stream of underage club grand finals in Hobart.

On Monday we kick it off with the under 15 girls game between the DiamondBacks and North-West Graduates from 6pm. The North-West Graduates team includes players from Derwent because some of the teams merged post COVID restrictions in the age group.

Then at 7.30pm it will be the under 18 boys grand final between minor premiers Derwent and DiamondBacks.

Here are some of the key players to watch

U15 GIRLS

Giselle Fernandez: (DiamondBacks) Fernandez is already an experienced Premier League player. Blessed with clean skills and great vision, it’s easy to see the comparisons drawn with Tassie Tigers star Sarah McCambridge.

Felicity Wilson-Haffenden is a star for Derwent but is playing for North-West Grads in a merged U15 team. Picture: NIKKI DAVIS-JONES

Felicity Wilson-Haffenden (North-West Graduates/Derwent) Hard to miss with her red locks, Felicity covers the ground like no other in the competition. Tough in the tackle, skilful and blessed with a terrific aerobic engine, she’ll be key.

Emma O’Grady (North-West Graduates/Derwent) Exceptionally quick and has terrific elimination skills. When given space and able to link up with teammate Georgie Fox, the pair are a nightmare for defenders.

U18 BOYS

Harrison Winch (Derwent) A talented defender known for his elite aerial passing ability and penalty corner flicking prowess. It’ll spell danger for DiamondBacks if they give him a look at many set pieces.

George Oliver has represented the state at junior levels.

Josh Hine (DiamondBacks) Scored eight goals in a breakout season, which included another two goals at Premier League level. One performance was crucial to the senior side’s upset defeat of University.

George Oliver (DiamondBacks) A courageous defender that has come on leaps and bounds in 2020. Reads the play well, is assured in the tackle and possesses a powerful strike of the ball.