As the cousin of three-time Olympian and Hockeyroos star Casey Sablowski, Jack Hayes has the pedigree.
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And a fine run of form at the Australian Hockey League and indoor World Cup has helped him earn the call-up into the Kookaburras wider national men’s squad.
Hayes was named as part of a 27-man group, the pool of players in line for selection for next year’s inaugural Pro League and the Oceania Cup, before the 2020 Tokyo Olympics loom.
The selection is a significant step towards his international debut, as being part of the national development squad.
“Jack Hayes has had opportunities with us in Perth,” coach Colin Batch said.
“He also played in the Australia A-Malaysia games.
“We watched him closely during the AHL and there’s a lot of potential there. He’s gained experience playing for Australia in the Indoor World Cup and we feel he can add some strength in our midfield and as a striker.”
Primarily a midfielder, Hayes scored six goals in the AHL campaign where NSW made the final, before being beaten by 5-3 by Queensland. Hayes joins Blake Govers and Flynn Ogilvie in the national squad.
The announcement comes just days after 2012 London bronze medallist Kieran Govers retired from international duty.
Govers played in the Darwin international tournament recently, having fought his back into the national team after a string of injury woes and tumultous period after missing out on selection for Rio two years ago.
He played in three Champions Trophy triumphs, as well as two World Cup wins and a Commonwealth Games gold.
“It’s the end of the road for Kieran,” Batch said. “He did very well to come back after a disappointing 2016 and he had a few injuries during that time.
“He got himself back to 100 per cent and gave it everything. He played in the Darwin series, so credit to him. He’s a great example to the younger players on how to be a pro, with his training ethic and commitment on the ground. He’s in a different phase of his life with a young family to look after so he goes out with our blessing. We wish him well for the future.”