The womens’ over 60s squad were named as Team of the Year in the recent Scottish Women in Sport Awards.
This year’s European Champions clinched the prize following their historic victory in Valencia in July. The super 60s drew 1-1 with England in the final, and won on running penalties.
Captain Ali MacFarlane said: “This was a night for showcasing and celebrating everything good in women’s sport and our team receiving the prestigious Team of the Year award was an acknowledgement that an older generation playing competitive sport is not just a watered down version of ‘the real thing’ but has a real value in its own right.
“From the audience’s enthusiastic reception to us as we all trooped on to the stage it appeared we were popular winners which was lovely to see.”
The growth of Scottish Masters Hockey and the success of all of our teams will continue to improve the public perception of masters sport. Recognition of the team’s achievement in securing that historic European gold medal in Valencia is a really positive boost for us going forward. The award gives the W60s an extra incentive (not that we need it!) to continue to improve all aspects of our game in order to achieve gold at world level in Auckland in 2024.”
The Scottish Women in Sport Awards recognise and celebrate the hard work, dedication and commitment that enables young girls and women to participate in every aspect of sporting life. This year’s ceremony took place on Friday 24th November in Glasgow.
Coach Wendy Justice added: “What a fabulous ‘recognition of achievement’ accolade to win. Each year Masters hockey at home and world wide grows, in playing numbers and standards, and the competition gets stronger. Our achievement and that of several other Masters teams, who went home with a medal, is inspiring several generations and drawing playing numbers into or back to hockey.
“There’s plenty to like. Fun, lasting friendships, travel, competition and challenge, skills and ability development, fitness and well-being, and opportunity to achieve ‘new firsts’. Here’s to our next adventure together.”
Selection is currently underway for season 23/24, with the World Masters Hockey World Cup taking place in New Zealand in November 2024. Find out more about eligibility, how you can trial for Scotland, and keep an eye on selection dates on our calendar.