Neive Campbell and Claire Smallhorn played a key role in NSW’s victory in the under 15 girl’s competition, with Campbell co-captaining the side. 

The NSW team progressed through the tournament unbeaten, recording a number of resounding victories.  

“It was really good,” Campbell said. “It was pretty tough, we had some really good opponents but it was a great atmosphere and there were heaps of supporters.

“It was a big honour to captain the team, it was really great to be recognised and have that leadership position.”

Wollongong’s Lucinda Preeo also competed at the tournament, representing Tasmania, who finished in fifth place. Preeo scored seven goals for the side throughout the week.

The under 15 boys team, featuring Samuel Wright-Smith, also claimed top honours, with a 7-3 victory in the final over Victoria rounding out a dominant tournament. 

Campbell’s father, Mark, praised both the boys and girls teams for their efforts throughout the week. 

“The level of effort by the players was outstanding,” Mark said. “Their commitment to get the ball was impressive. 

“Both boys and girls must have held the ball more than 70 per cent of time. Possession allows you to dictate play to a certain extent.”

In a testament to the depth of the Illawarra’s hockey stocks, four boys were selected to represent the NSW under 13 team at the tournament. The players, Dylan Simmons, Luke Potter, Ethan Bambridge and Michael Arthur, played a crucial role in the team’s overall victory at the tournament.

Neive said NSW’s success at the tournament came down to the increased focus on the indoor version of the game.

“The development of indoor in NSW is really great,” she said.

“We have a lot of centres, so we’re able to have bigger competitions, unlike other states that have smaller centres and fewer fields.”