Two Border Masters hockey teams, representing the 40+ and 60+ age groups, recently returned from a spirited campaign at the Australian Masters Games in Canberra, held from 18–25 October.
Despite being made up of players from various Hockey Albury Wodonga local clubs, who had never played together before, both teams delivered impressive performances and showcased the strength of regional talent.
Wangaratta Dragons were well represented, with six team members in the 40+ age group – Amelia Bock, Christy Christie, Emma Gall, Carli Notman and Kylie Samson, with Ellie Samson managing the team well.
Sharon Watkins played in the 60+ team.
The 60+ team got off to a flying start, notching early wins and building strong momentum, but a crucial late-tournament loss saw them slip in the standings, forcing a play-off for fifth against the sixth placed side.
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That final match ended in a hard-fought draw, capping off a tournament filled with grit and determination.
Meanwhile, the 40+ team overcame a shaky start, dropping early matches but steadily improving with each game.
Their resilience paid off as they surged into the semi-finals, securing a spot in the gold medal match against The Old Ducks, a team they had previously lost to.
In the final match, Border Masters came out firing, scoring two goals and setting the tone early in the game.
Their opponents clawed one back late in the first quarter, but Border responded with another just before half-time.
The third quarter turned into a midfield battle, with fatigue setting in after six games in seven days. Still, the Border side dug deep, adding a fourth goal after the final break.
A late consolation goal from the opposition wasn’t enough to stop the Border Masters from claiming a 4–2 victory and the gold medal.
The tournament was not only a showcase of skill and teamwork but also a celebration of camaraderie and community spirit.
For both local teams, it was a week of great hockey, new friendships, and unforgettable memories.
