Eastham our Hockeyroo

ALBION PARK Hockey sensation Casey Eastham has continued her rise in Womens hockey after being selected into the 2006 Hockeyroos Squad.

Her selection marks the highlight in her blossoming career; having already stepped up to the NSW Womens team this season.

Casey said she knew something was strange after having so many messages on her phone congratulating her.

I was with my best friend at the time and I went bright red after reading messages on my phone congratulating me she said

I am just so thrilled and the last few days have been awesome. I did have to go home and check on my computer just to confirm I made the squad. I then called my Mum and Dad, and I couldnt wait to let my Nan know she added.

After recalling her elation, Casey commented that her focus is now on returning from a knee injury.

My immediate goal is getting back on the field, which should be in five to six weeks.

Once I am fit I will keep working hard on perfecting my skills and hope to first make the team and be in contention for Beijing. She added.

Those who know Casey say that her temperament has always enabled her to go as far as she wants, something that appealed to Hockeyroos Coach, Frank Murray.

Casey has a raw talent and one of her best qualities is her enthusiasm to learn, she has it all going for her said Murray.

Casey is currently eyeing the under 21 Nationals at Brisbane in June for her return, and according to Murray, can expect her first taste of open level International competition as early as August this year, as the Hockeyroos prepare to tour the U.S.A.

We plan to expose her to competition as often as possible, and do not expect too much at this stage.

She has a long way to go and needs to keep up the hard work that got her this far and take her skills and knowledge to another level. Murray added.

While elite level hockey players, generally peak around 26 years of age, Murray counts the next five years as important for Eastham in her development, all-starting with the HSC.

Casey wishes to thank Albion Park High School for their continued support, the Albion Park Hockey Community and Dianne Gorman for her ongoing inspiration.

Casey is already set to give something back to the sport and will coach the South Coast Under 15 representative team this year, which is sure to be a wonderful experience for the up and coming youngsters, not much younger than Casey herself.