NSR’s own hockey champion, Estelle Hughes (NSW) has been involved in hockey for 15 years now.
The hockey-great shares that she was inspired to start playing after watching the Hockeyroos play at the Olympics when she was five.
Years later, it’s impossible to keep her away from the hockey field.
“Generally my nature is that I like a challenge, and that’s why I love hockey. You’ve always got more things to learn and new tricks, and I think that’s why it always appealed to me and why I stuck with it,” she shared.
Upon experiencing a hugely successful trial with Hockey NSW for NSR, Estelle explains she was extremely “excited” about what NSR could offer her.
Although extremely passionate about hockey, Estelle reveals she is just as passionate about her academic life.
“I really am a bit of a ‘nerd’ (laughs). I love Uni and studying, and I love hockey. They’re my two favourite things, so I guess being able to do both together is just ideal for me,” she said.
On giving advice for other hockey athletes preparing to trial, Estelle shares two important points: “Obviously practice, but make sure you enjoy it. Now I only play to enjoy myself, and it seems to work hand in hand.”
Estelle can’t wait to get over to the States to work towards her physio degree she’s completing at home, as well as being able to access other amazing opportunities.
“I think there’s just a lot of opportunities over there that you can’t necessarily get over here,” she said.
“It’s exciting and an adventure to me.”
An adventure, indeed! We wish you luck, Estelle!