The Geelong Hockey community is one big family – but it’s so big that we can’t know everyone who is part of it. So we would like to introduce you to some of the members of our family.
We are starting with a member profile of Jesse Allthorpe – fresh from winning a Gold Medal with the Western Wildcats at the U18 Junior State Championships, it’s an great illustration of the value of being involved in a community sporting group.
What is your current involvement in hockey in Geelong?
- I’m currently a goalkeeper for Kardinia White’s Under 17 side as well as goalkeeping for the Hockey Geelong Sharks development squad in the senior men’s competition.
How, where and when did you first become involved in hockey?
- I started playing in 2018 for Kardinia. I chose hockey and didn’t expect to get very attached to it. This changed when in my second game ever I played as a goalkeeper. I suddenly became very passionate for hockey and wanted to be the very best I can
What is the best part about being involved in hockey?
- The people you meet, not just in Hockey Geelong but in other places, the friendships and rivalries that are made purely by both people wanting to be the best in the sport.
Do you have any favourite stories, memories or milestones about your involvement in hockey?
- Debut game for Geelong Sharks U16s v Footscray, it was my first glimpse into hockey outside the local competition and against people outside Geelong. It was also a game where I played pretty well for my first match.
What do you love about the game of hockey?
- The friendships and rivalries. As a person and friend you want your friend to develop and be better and as a rival you want to be the better player on the field. In local hockey I’ve been able to play with and against great friends, knowing you both have a common interest and goal.
Do you or someone in your club have a great story to share with us? Send us your story details and a photo.