SEASON 2013 didn’t turn out to be a great one for Altona in Premier League hockey, but the Seagulls have plenty to smile about on the individual front.
Two of the club’s most promising youngsters, Andrew Scanlon and Jessica Brennan, have been selected in futures squads that could lead to scholarships with both the Australian Institute of Sport and the Victorian Institute of Sport.
Scanlon scored selection for the Hockey Australia men’s national futures squad after taking part in Victoria’s recent successful national championship campaign, while Brennan, also an under-18 state representative, gained selection as part of the Hockey Victoria women’s futures squad.
“We have always thought both players were very talented, so it comes as no surprise that they have been identified as future stars of the game,” club chairman David Burns said.
“We are so proud of their achievements so far, and are confident they will continue their development to become fantastic players in the upper echelons of our sport.”
Altona boasts a number of players that have managed to achieve individual success this season.
In the senior ranks, 12 Seagulls have juggled their club commitments with state duties in 2013 while another 14 juniors have also played roles at state level throughout the year.
Meanwhile at masters level, four Altona representatives have worked their way into state teams.
“We have had so many members participate across a variety of age groups from under-12s all the way to a long-time member in the over-60s men’s side,” Burns said.
“We are a family club that is very proud of our inclusive and diverse membership base.
“When these players go away for national championships, not only are they representing our club on a big stage, they are also bringing back vital knowledge, skills and tactics that further improve our club.”
