Ever-consistent Eddie reaches 100-game milestone

YMCC and Kooakburras legend Eddie Ockenden will add another milestone to the long list to attached to his name, when he reaches the 100 Premier League match milestone on Friday 6 May against WASPs.

Ockenden, current captain of the Kookaburras, has had to wait a long time to reach the achievement, hitting the 100-game mark after 16 seasons at YMCC.

Ockenden, who has been praised as “one of the most consistent players he’s seen” by coach and team mate Graeme Begbie, has reached the milestone in unique circumstances, after the Kooakburras’ Trans-Tasman series was postponed due to a COVID outbreak in New Zealand Black Sticks’ men’s squad.

Speaking on his long-time teammate, Begbie says that it is a privilege to have Ockenden represent YM for a number of years.

“We are really privileged to have had Eddie at YM for such a long period of time,” Begbie says/

“He’s a phenomenal player on the pitch, but more than that, a great guy to have in the team and within the club.

“He goes beyond what’s expected of him – he stays involved and whether or not he’s playing at the time due to his Kookaburras commitments, he ensures to come down and watch when given the opportunity.”

Begbie spent several years as Ockenden’s teammate but now coaches him from the side lines, stating that he is as coachable as a player can get.

“Coaching him is super easy – there’s not much coaching required,” Begbie says.

“I just stand on the side lines and watch him perform week after week – he’s ultra-consistent.

“It’s great to see him out there and know he’s on our side – I don’t have to worry as much!”

During Ockenden’s tenure, YM had years of success, with Begbie stating Ockenden played a key role in their successful period.

“We had a number of years where we were successful and Eddie definitely played a role in that,” Begbie says.

“The thing with Eddie is that he’s not super vocal but he leads by example.

“Week after week of consistent performances really allows the players around him to feed off him – it really drives a great culture to strive to perform at your best.”

Catch Eddie Ockenden’s 100^th Premier League match against WASPs from 7:15pm, Friday 6 May at Perth Hockey Stadium at Curtin University. Watch live and free here.