Strong NSW Representation Named in Hockeyroos and Kookaburras Squads for 2026 FIH Hockey World Cup

Hockey Australia has today announced the Hockeyroos and Kookaburras squads for the 2026 FIH Hockey World Cup, set to be played across Belgium and the Netherlands from 15–30 August, with a strong contingent of NSW talent selected to represent Australia on the world stage.

The Hockeyroos will enter the tournament looking to improve on their bronze medal performance from the 2022 FIH Hockey World Cup. Drawn in Pool A alongside the Netherlands, Japan and Chile, Australia will open its campaign against Japan, with the top two teams progressing through to Pool E.

Head Coach Rhett Halkett has selected a talented squad featuring nine NSW-born athletes, underlining the strength of the state's women's hockey pathway. Alice Arnott, Jocelyn Bartram, Alana Kavanagh, Kaitlin Nobbs, Courtney Schonell, Grace Stewart, Mariah Williams, Abigail Wilson and Grace Young have all earned selection in the travelling squad, while Makayla Jones and Zoe Newman have been named as non-travelling reserves.

The Kookaburras will be aiming to secure their fourth FIH Hockey World Cup title when they begin their campaign in August. Australia has been drawn into Pool C alongside Spain, Ireland and South Africa, with the top two teams advancing to the knockout stages. The Kookaburras will open their tournament against Ireland on 16 August.

Following a strong international season, Head Coach Mark Hager has selected six NSW-born players in his World Cup squad. Tim Brand, Tom Craig, Blake Govers, Lachlan Sharp, Ash Thomas and Ky Willott will represent Australia in Europe, while Nathan Czinner and Dylan Downey have been selected as non-travelling reserves.

The selection of 15 NSW-born players across both national teams is a testament to the calibre of athletes and pathways being developed throughout New South Wales. Hockey NSW is incredibly proud to see such strong representation on the international stage and wishes all selected athletes the very best as they prepare to compete at the 2026 FIH Hockey World Cup.

All matches from the 2026 FIH Hockey World Cup will be streamed live on 7plus, with further information, fixtures and tournament updates available via the Hockey Australia website.