Hayes, just recently brought into the training squad, made his debut for the Kookaburras in the new FIH Pro hockey league against Germany in Hobart on Sunday.

What a debut for Hayes, playing alongside his junior Illawarra club mate Blake Govers and a third Illawarra player Flynn Ogilvie coming back into the  team after missing the opening round in Melbourne. 

Hayes, who was destined for a Kookaburra jumper, was brought into the game in the fifth minute and made his presence felt immediately when he made an assist in the 12th minute for Jacob Anderson to level scores 1-1.

The Albion Park product was happy with his play and said it was awesome to play his role and just get the win and the points after being winless in the opening games in Melbourne.

“It was unbelievable to debut for your country on home soil and to play with my best mate Blake Govers is something I will never forget,” Hayes said.

Kookaburra coach Colin Batch was also impressed with young Hayes’ play and said he fitted well with his attacking and midfield play.  

The Kookaburras had the last laugh over the Germans finally beating them 4-2 with the final goal coming off a penalty corner rebound from Blake Govers. 

The Kookaburras next game is against Great Britain on Saturday in Perth before the league moves to Sydney in March.