The women's Hockeyroos went down 0 – 2 to the host nation, The Netherlands. Australia performed solidly throughout the entire tournament but ran into a better team in the final. Their silver medal at the World Cup is expected to raise them to a ranking of 2nd in the world.
In the men's tournament the Kookaburras dominated. Their fast and aggressive style saw demolition of many great hockey nations such as India, Argentina, and in the final Holland winning 6 - 1.
In this game Australia kept possession for the first 10 minutes but the Dutch scored a goal against play putting the Kookaburras under pressure. In emphatic style the Aussies bounced back scoring a torrent of goals from penalty corners (Chris Ciriello scored a hat-trick of goals).
The other standout was Jamie Dwyer. Dwyer is a five times World Player of the Year and can now add becoming Australia's joint most capped player. The win completes the Kookaburras defence of their 2010 World Cup title and cemented their 100% win record at this World Cup tournament.
The Kookaburra's victory also acts as a swansong for legendary player and coach Ric Charlesworth. Charlesworth was one of the world's best hockey players during the 80s and 90s. Moving into coaching, his great hockey mind innovated the game and led to a string of victories for the Hockeyroos including Olympic gold medals.
In the lead up to this World Cup he nurtured a brilliant balance of experienced senior players and the young new breed. This World Cup victory completes a return to the top of the world stage for both the men's and women's Australian teams. And Charlesworth's influence is seen on both.
Australian hockey's next challenge is the Commonwealth Games starting with the Hockeyroos verses Malaysia on 24th July. (www.hockey.org.au/Events/Calendar)
Jeremy Dover is a former sports scientist and pastor
Jeremy Dover's previous articles may be viewed at www.pressserviceinternational.org/jeremy-dover.html
