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Aleisha’s part in history
Rangeville’s Aleisha Neumann will have her name marked down in history later this month.
The Toowoomba player is part of the 20-woman Brisbane Blaze squad that will contest the inaugural Hockey One League.
The new competition takes the place of the Australian Hockey League, and will now serve as Australia’s premier domestic league.
It only further emphasises the achievement of Neumann, who has worked incredibly hard to put herself in the frame for the final squad.
“The squad was initially selected from the Super League tournament which was held on the May Day long weekend,” she said.
“I was in the South West team (combination of Toowoomba and Ipswich players), and from performances there they selected the initial squad of 30, which became a training group.
“At the start of September it went from 30 to 20. From that 20, they select 14 who will be the game-day team.”
She said she is still in shock at her inclusion in the final squad, and is hoping to make the most of her opportunity.
“It’s a very big surprise to make the group,” she said.
“I’ve been more well-known as an umpire in years of late and I haven’t had the opportunity to play representative hockey, so the initial inclusion wasn’t something that I expected.
“I went into training with the attitude of it being a development and fitness opportunity and a real learning space, and apparently I did well enough to keep my spot.
“For anyone who is involved in a sport at a high level or has a passion for a sport, you want to play at the highest level you can.
“So pulling on the uniform and being able to play minutes will be exciting, and will be a different perspective for myself.
“Normally I’m in the umpiring team at these sorts of tournaments so it’s nice to be able to play and be involved in that team aspect.”
In another coup for the competition, which starts on September 29, Kayo will broadcast all regular season fixtures live, with the finals on Fox Sports.
Neumann said she hopes the increased exposure would lead to players being paid in the future.
“Hopefully in years to come if there’s enough sponsorship and interest we could potentially be paid athletes like those from other sports, and not just amateurs will full-time jobs on the side.”