Welch on target for more Kookas action

AFTER earning an unexpected Kookaburras debut earlier this month, Diamond-Backs star Jack Welch is hell bent on returning to international hockey by starring for his home state.

Welch will line up for the Tassie Tigers in their Australian Hockey League (AHL) return to Hobart next Saturday night firmly focused on making a statement.

“Playing for the Kookas was so enjoyable and fulfilling. It happened quickly and was a bit unexpected, but I just took it in my stride and tried to take full advantage of the opportunity,” Welch said after scoring a goal in the Tigers’ practice match win over a Premier League All Star side on Thursday night.

“Playing international hockey is definitely something I want to do again in the not too distant future.

“My major goal after debuting in Darwin and scoring my first international goal is to get selected in the national squad for next year, so the first step is having a big impact at AHL.”

Welch returned to Hobart on Wednesday to prepare with his Tigers teammates and feels the side is on track to entertain supporters and enjoy team success with the new rules.

“The new rules make it more entertaining for spectators and will bring in a whole other tactical side to the game with the power plays and oneon-ones for field goals,” he said. “I think the Tigers’ strengths will be our workrate, intensity and belief that we can beat anyone. I also expect myself and Eddie Ock- enden to be lining up in the forward line together to push ACT’s Kookaburras goalkeeper Andrew Charter.

“They have two Japanese players, including the Japan captain, that will be of a high standard, so we need to prepare well.”

The Tigers will play a final practice match against the Premier League All Stars on Tuesday night.