Phoenix will make its debut on the 30th anniversary Marist Hockey Tournament when it starts today as one of eight women’s teams among 20 sides competing in this year’s tournament.
The 20-player squad is eager to test itself against more experienced opposition while gaining valuable exposure in its first major tournament appearance.
Among the squad are three players from the Solomon Islands, adding to a group made up of players from different backgrounds and levels of experience.
For coach and player Divyankar Kumar, the tournament represents more than a debut. It is an opportunity to pass on lessons from a decade spent playing for Marist and experiences gained overseas.
Kumar spent 10 years with the Marist women’s team before also playing in New Zealand, experiences that shaped her understanding of the game and strengthened her desire to give back.
“It is a very big achievement for me personally,” Kumar said.
“I saw it as an opportunity to come back home and give back to the sport.”
That vision led to the formation of Phoenix, giving young players an opportunity to play, gain exposure and develop through competition.
Training has not been without its challenges, with players arriving with different levels of experience. While some have natural ability, others are still learning the fundamentals.
For Kumar, coaching has become another part of her own development.
“As a coach too you learn, and I am very fortunate that I’m getting the opportunity to play with them on the field as well while I coach,” she said.
Her experience as a midfielder has also influenced the way she prepares the team, with emphasis on understanding teammates, recognising strengths and weaknesses and working together under pressure.
Phoenix will face established opposition including Marist, Ventures and Stingers, giving the young side an early measure of where it stands.
With the youngest player only 13, Kumar hopes the experience will build confidence and encourage more youngsters to take up hockey.
“Never give up. Don’t be afraid. Just try it,” she said.
Phoenix now has its chance to do exactly that, stepping onto the tournament stage ready to learn, compete and enjoy its first taste of higher-level hockey.
The tournament will conclude on Sunday.
