Question: How much of a difference does it make to play at home?
Brooke Neal: Playing at home is such a huge advantage, especially when we had the World League Final, last year, having thousands of Kiwis cheering for every time you do something really good. It’s amazing and something we are not used to because we have to often go overseas and face the Argentina crowd or the Dutch crowd. So, it is really exciting to have a chance to play the Dutch and get them to see how awesome our supporters here are.
Q: Your thoughts on #FIHProLeague format?
BN: It’s going to be an interesting one. We are not sure how it’s going to go. I mean, we have to test out how long we have to be in a country before we play a game. So, we have to often fly a few days before the game. But, yeah I think the importance of making sure we step-up for every single game because you only get one shot, will be a lot different to the tournament format. I think it will have its challenges but also for the crowd and viewers it will be awesome.
Q: What does it mean to you to play for your country?
BN: I think it has changed over the years, being in the team. When I first made it I was happy to be here and to represent New Zealand and wear the Black shirt. Over the years, going to the Olympics, it’s more than yourself, it is about representing your country and your family and now I think it’s about being a support for the younger girls coming through and sort of guiding them to step up so we can leave a legacy as older players. I say “older” players but I am just 26. That’s probably because where I am at the moment is helping the next wave of players coming through.
Q: What does equality in Hockey mean to you?
BN: I think Hockey is probably one of the only sports that does have a fair representation of men and women, which is awesome to see. I think, while growing up you definitely didn’t think it was a men’s or a women’s game. I think it is one of the best things about Hockey that it is for everyone and it’s something that, especially with the pay and everything like that - it is even now, which is awesome - I really enjoy being a part of that.
Q: Which team is the toughest to play?
BN: Definitely the Dutch are sort of constantly at the top of the table and its because they are so consistent. I think they have really proven over the last few years that they are the ones to beat, so we are constantly trying to push and come up with ways to be able to beat them.
#FIHProLeague
