Miss Gilbar's Hockey Success
Miss Holly Gilbar, a current Downlands College Year 6 teacher, has recently been announced as a team member of the Hockey Australia Squad for the Hockey5s World Cup in Oman next year. We sat down with Miss Gilbar to find out more about her history in the sport and what she's most looking forward to when representing Australia.
How long have you been playing hockey for?
I have been playing field hockey since I was 8 years old. My sister was playing and I thought it looked great. In 2018 I took up indoor hockey which is a smaller and faster version of the game. This will be my first year of Hockey5s as it is the first time that Australia will have a competitive opens team.
What are some of your most notable hockey achievements to date?
After less than 16 months in the sport, I was selected in the Australian Indoor Hockey World Cup squad. I trained as a member of this squad for the three-year lead up to the World Cup, however, a significant knee injury withdrew me from final selection. I have also been a member of the Australian Country field hockey team. This selection in the Hockey5s World Cup squad is my third opportunity to represent Australia in a different variation of the sport.
What are you most looking forward to at the Hockey5s World Cup in Oman?
This tournament will be the inaugural World Cup for Hockey5s. I'm looking forward to the atmosphere of international competition and am excited about the opportunity to be a pioneering member of this variation of hockey, especially as there is currently a push to have Hockey 5's included in the Olympics.
Do you think learning a team sport can benefit school-aged children? If so, why?
Learning a team sport is an amazing opportunity for school aged children as it can teach them life skills within a safe, supportive and fun environment. There is no better way to develop resilience, problem-solving, teamwork, communication and social skills whilst also building your strength and fitness. Plus, it's great fun!
