Pupils get lesson from Black Sticks

Pupils at primary schools in the area enjoyed a visit from some hockey heroes on Monday, when Black Sticks women players took time out from training to meet up with their younger fans.

At Ngaere School, Black Sticks Charlotte Harrison and Kirsten Pearce enjoyed talking to pupils. "It's great to see grass roots hockey and hear how much they are loving the sport," said Kirsten.

She says children often first get a taste for sport at school so it is important to nurture that.

Charlotte's advice to any young player is simple: "Practice, practice, practice." "Plus have fun, always have fun and enjoy it," adds Kirsten.

Both players say they are overwhelmed by the support from the local community. "It is great to see how many people come out to watch us play and to cheer us on, it makes a real difference to how we play."

At Stratford Primary, Julia King and Sam Charlton were kept busy answering lots of questions and signing hockey sticks, clothing, arms and souvenir guides for the children. Sam emphasised the importance of healthy eating to maximise potential, telling the children that food is fuel for their bodies.

Chris Linders, principal of St Joseph's Stratford, told visiting players Jordan Grant and Anita Punt that the number of pupils playing hockey in the school had dramatically increased since the last Oceania Cup tournament in Stratford two years ago. "They were definitely inspired by watching the games last time and we are all looking forward to coming along to cheer on the Black Sticks this time, too."

Before spending some time with the hockey playing pupils, Jordan and Anita spoke to the whole school, answering questions from pupils in each class. Both said they liked being in Stratford for the tournament, adding it was good to be staying in the town where they are playing. Questions covered all aspects of the sport, including favourite brand of hockey stick, where the two players agreed to disagree - Anita preferring Gryphon and Jordan preferring Kookaburra.

Sean Robinson (7) enjoyed the chance to learn from the best, getting tips on ball handling and dribbling from Jordan Grant. Sean says hockey is his favourite sport "because I am good at shooting goals". Asked who he thinks will win the tournament, his response was immediate, "the Black Sticks of course".