MANNING’S Tilley Hunter was a member of the NSW under 13 side that finished fourth in the Australian Indoor Hockey Championships held in Wollongong.
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Tahni Walters of Taree was chosen to be one of the umpires at the tournament.
Tilley was selected for her first nationals following the State titles in Gosford in November, where Manning Valley emerged as champions.
NSW started slowly on day one with losses against the strong Queensland teams. Tilley held her own being one of the youngest on the side, applying pressure on the opposition defenders and making penetrating raids into the circle. Her speed and tenacity were valuable assets in this fast form of the game.
The second day proved more fruitful with a strong 3-0 win against ACT. The afternoon game saw NSW up against Victoria. NSW showed good structure and finished off their opportunities winning the game 4-1 with Tilley voted MVP by the coaching staff.
With Queensland finishing first and second , NSW was left to play off for the bronze medal against Victoria where they were defeated 4-2. Tilley was outstanding in this game intercepting defenders passes and unlucky not to score and add to her two goals for the tournament.
Tahni also umpired at the State championships but only received the late callup prior to Christmas .
Tahnis maturity, decision making skills under pressure were traits that saw her selected for her first nationals.
She joined a panel of five girls and seven boys from Queensland , Victoria, Tasmania and NSW. Unusually three of Tahni’s umpiring duties were in games where her home State took part. Tahni was selected to umpire the bronze medal match between NSW and Victoria on finals day.
A great experience for both girls who are very much looking forward to taking part again next year.