WA State U21 Coaching Appointments revealed

The coaches set to lead WA's Under-21 teams in the upcoming Hockey Australia U21 Championships being held in Newcastle in March have been revealed, with 2023 Premier League Women's premiership coach Lindsey Wright, and two-time WA Under-21 Championship coach Tim Geers set to take the helm.

It comes as Hockey WA launches a coach mentoring program for 2024 to provide further support to State Team coaches throughout the competition season.

A former captain for South Africa and two-time Olympian, Wright comes equiped with elite-level experience to lead the Women's team in Newcastle and guide them towards competitive success.

Over the last two seasons, she has filled the role as Assistant Coach, and now takes the lead role for the 2024 National Championships. Locally, Wright steered the Suburban Lions Women's Premier League team to a historic maiden premiership in an exciting 2023 Grand Final against UWA.

Off the back of winning back-to-back National titles in 2022 and 2023, Geers' experience and knowledge of the game at the elite level makes him a deserved candidate to lead the Men's side to a three-peat in Newcastle.

Geers is a current member of the Perth Thundersticks team and is captain of the Melville City Hockey Club Premier League Men's side, who have won back-to-back premierships in 2021 & 2022, and made their third Grand Final appearance in as many years in 2023.

Hockey WA Performance and Pathways manager Trid Woodhouse is pleased with the recent appointments of the lead coaches, emphasizing the thoroughness of the selection process.

"With experienced coaches now at the helm of the Under 21 programs, it not only acknowledges their consistent success, but also serves as a clear indication to our community of the coaching pathways available," he said.

"Both coaches bring recent successes to the forefront, and supporting their continuous growth aligns with Hockey WA's commitment to fostering such opportunities."

WA Under-21 State Team trials will begin on Tuesday 19 December at Perth Hockey Stadium at Curtin University from 6.00pm to 8.00pm.

The Hockey Australia Under-21 Championships takes place in Newcastle, NSW from Wednesday 13 March to Wednesday 20 March, 2024.

Coach Mentoring Program for 2024

In 2024, our WA State coaches will benefit from the invaluable support of coach mentors.

These experienced mentors will work side-by-side with our dedicated coaches, offering guidance, strategic insights and a wealth of knowledge throughout the season.

This collaborative approach aims to enhance the coaching experience, foster continuous growth, and elevate the overall performance of our State teams.

Hockey WA believes this mentorship program will not only refine coaching techniques, but also cultivate a dynamic and supportive environment for both coaches and players.

Get ready for an exciting journey of collaboration and excellence in 2024!