The Hockeyroos are set to play their first international match since the 2008 Beijing Olympics, announcing their participation in the Spar Cup, a 4 nations invitational tournament to be played in Durban, South Africa from 2-6 June.

The tournament will see the Hockeyroos go head to head against Argentina, South Africa, and India.

Participation in Durban will provide the Hockeyroos with invaluable competition for their young side as they prepare for the Samsung Hockey Champions Trophy - Women 2009 Sydney tournament from 11-19 July.

Six players, Alison Bruce, Emily Hurtz, Stacia Joseph, Heather Langham, Georgia Nanscawen and Danielle Schubach will all make their international debuts at the tournament.

Of particular interest is the inclusion of Nanscawen, who at the age of 16 will become one of the youngest ever Hockeyroos.

Still in shock about her national squad selection, Nanscawen said to make her international debut at such a young age was unexpected considering 12 months ago she was playing Under 15s.

ÔÇ£I thought it was going to be at least a couple of years away before I would be in consideration for the national squad. I thought I may have been a chance for the development or junior squad but it has just come so quickly,ÔÇØ said Nanscawen.

While admitting playing for the Hockeyroos is a massive step up from anything she has previously encountered, Nanscawen says she isn't going in with any expectations and is just looking forward to playing.

ÔÇ£To be honest I don't really know what to expect. This will be my first trip overseas for hockey and you see the Hockeyroos play on TV so to actually be a part of it will be very exciting,ÔÇØ said Nanscawen.

Source: Hockey Australia


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