Ed the big lure for Hayward

KOOKABURRAS star Jeremy Hayward says the lure of playing alongside Australian captain Eddie Ockenden in one of Australian hockey’s most consistently strong squads is what secured his signing for this year’s Hockey One league.

When Northern Territory was unable to secure a licence in the new domestic competition, Hayward was quick to commit to the Tassie Tigers.

With 149 international games and 62 goals from his world-renowned penalty corner flicking skills already to his name, the 26-year-old has bolstered the Tigers squad significantly.

“Ed was a huge influence because he’s a good bloke and great friend of mine. Combine being able to play alongside him, with the bonus of coming to Tasmania three times for home matches and explore what the state has to offer was very appealing,” Hayward said.

“The Tigers have performed with consistently good performances, winning the competition in 2014 and then following that up with another couple of top-four finishes.

“Credit to all involved with Hockey Tasmania because it’s in very capable hands, not only having three players in the national side but developing players as well, which is evident from the guys in the Australian under-21 side too.”

Hayward, Young Player of the Tournament in Australia’s 2014 World Cup win, was recently a key part of the Kookaburras’ Pro League and Oceania Cup titles.

“I have loved playing for the Territory and me playing for the Tigers would stop a local player playing, so I want to help and support the players build their game,” he said. “On field, I hope I can bring some structure at the back, a bit of control with the ball and some goals from penalty corners.”

The Tigers open their Hockey One campaign at the Tasmanian Hockey Centre tomorrow night at 6.30pm against the Adelaide Fire, who fell 2-1 to NSW Pride in Game 1. The Tigers women begin their tournament from 5pm against a powerhouse Fire side featuring several Hockeyroos and New Zealand star Gemma McCaw, which defeated the Pride last weekend.

University’s Jayden Pearson has been elevated to the Hockey One umpiring panel and will officiate the men’s match in his debut.