It’s completely normal for athletes to feel nervous before trials. NSR caught up with Alycia Brennan after her recent successful trial with Hockey WA, to get the scoop on how support from those closest to her has helped her confidence, and what her hopes for the future are.
What gave you the confidence to decide to trial?
My parents and friends were probably the main reason I decided to actually trial. They all had the confidence in me, and encouraged me to give it a go. The support and encouragement they all gave me, really helped me through the trial, and made me realise that you will never know what could happen unless you give it a go.
How did you find the trial?
I found the trial to be very good. The set-up of the day was done well and it allowed all athletes to show their skill without feeling overly pressured. The small games were a good way for us athletes to show what we can do, and I found the trial to be a very positive experience.
What are you most looking forward to in your future with NSR?
I think I am most looking forward to going through the promotion process and the excitement that it will bring. I am looking forward to getting offers from colleges and being able to play the sport I love at a level I may not necessarily get to play at here. I am really looking forward to the whole experience and the opportunities that will be offered to me. I’ve always dreamed about playing hockey overseas, but I never actually thought it could happen for me. Once I heard about this program, I realised that my dreams are possible to achieve.
NSR has given me the opportunity to pursue my dreams, and in doing so have changed my perceptions of what was available. In terms of my academic life, I have been looking into studying abroad for a while, and the NSR program has allowed me to fulfil several of my dreams at once.