The La Trobe University Hockey Club was well represented at the recent Australian Men’s Masters (Veterans) National Championships. Four players, Matthew Trounce and Robert Glide in the Over 35s, and Stuart McCleary in the Over 40s and Greg Van Meeuwen in the Over 45s) represented Victoria last month in Hobart.
The Over 35s won Silver, falling at the last hurdle to host state Tasmania 4-2 in the final. Club Coach Matthew Trounce and 2s skipper Rob Glide played pivotal roles in the team with their speed and agility leaving their opponents in awe.
“To come away without the Gold was disappointing but the standard was amazing, it was a good trip away from Trav Dowling and we got to play against all of Huddo’s and Crouchy’s cousins in the final”, said an exhausted Trouncy.
In the Over 45s Division 1, Greg hopped straight off a plane from his international Europe tour to Jackson’s 18th and then on to play two and a half games for the Vics but missing out on finals. In his short time on the field, Greg dominated the mid-field and again has been selected for the national team, in New Zealand next May to compete in the Trans Tasman Cup. Greg, although chuffed on his national selection again, said “I really wanted to win a medal but I do enjoy a visit to the map of Tasmania”.
In the Over 40s Division 2 category, Life Member Stuart “Disco” McCleary held a spot in the forward line as well as keeping and was able to walk away with a Bronze medal after a heart-breaking 1-0 loss in the Semi Final to the eventual gold medallist.
Congratulations to all four players on their achievements and the club is looking forward to further success in 2013.