Welsh hockey aces book a Commonwealth Games spot

WALES will have representation on the hockey fields of the Gold Coast next April after Commonwealth Games Wales last night confirmed both a men and women’s squad will be heading Down Under.

The two teams booked their place at the 2018 Games after reaching top 10 ranking positions among Commonwealth nations.

The FIH Hero World Rankings released earlier this month saw the women remain in 26th place, but crucially ninth in the Commonwealth rankings.

Meanwhile the men’s team climbed eight places, the biggest rise of any country, to 24th place overall to claim the 10th Commonwealth ranking.

Helen Phillips, Chair of the Commonwealth Games Wales Board said: “The qualification of our national hockey teams is excellent news, and we’re delighted to have the men’s and women’s squads representing Team Wales at the Games.

“Reaching the mid-20s in the world rankings and securing a top 10 spot among Commonwealth nations is a huge achievement for both teams. This is testament to the commitment, passion and dedication of all the players, coaches and staff at Hockey Wales.

“We congratulate them all and wish them all the very best as they continue to prepare for next year’s Games.”

David Phenis, Chief Executive Officer at Hockey Wales said: “We are thrilled that both our men’s and women’s squads have qualified for the Commonwealth Games on the Gold Coast in 2018. After an unprecedented period for the game in Wales this achievement further underlines the progress of both our squads.

“We’d like to say a huge thank you to both Sport Wales and Team Wales for their invaluable support.”