From 21st - 24th October, the Scottish Women and the Welsh Men's hockey teams will compete at the World Cup Qualifiers. We are delighted to be able to share the news that two of our DUHC affiliate players have been selected to attend on behalf of their countries.
Women's first-team defender, Kerry- Anne Hastings, has been selected for the Scottish Women's senior team as a travelling reserve, whilst Premier League goalkeeper, Jack Tranter, has been selected to represent Wales. Alumni, Izzie Howell, has also been selected to represent the Welsh senior women and will join Kerry- Anne out in Pisa.
Both Jack and Kerry-Anne are part of the affiliate system at Durham, allowing them to play in the England Hockey Leagues on a weekend. The affiliate programme has gone from strength to strength and is a testament to the development of the club that they are now able to attract such highly performing athletes from outside of the student body.
In order to qualify for the World Cup Finals next year, Kerry- Anne and her team need to win this tournament which will take place in Pisa, Italy. The Welsh men need to finish as runners up at least, at the men's event in Cardiff, to book themselves a place at the World Cup next year.
Kerry-Anne said, "I am excited to have been given the opportunity to join the team travelling to Pisa. Especially as a couple of months ago I was still rehabbing an injury and never thought I would even be considered to be part of such a strong squad. It's going to be an incredible learning experience and the atmosphere in the camp is positive and we are ready to achieve what we have set out to. I am very grateful for the continuous support from Durham University Hockey Club in helping me on my international hockey journey."
Head of Hockey, Gareth Weaver-Tyler said, "It goes without saying that we are absolutely delighted and it is once again a really proud moment for all at DUHC. Whilst the affiliate programme has always been a positive aspect of our club, it is fantastic that we are now able to play a part in the journeys of these incredible international athletes and in turn have such strong role models for our students to aspire to. We can't wait to follow Jack, Kerry-Anne and Izzie over the next few days and wish them all the very best of luck!"
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