Relishing challenge of Black Sticks squad

"It is going to be a big step up, but I look forward to the challenge," says Johanna Avery who has been selected for the New Zealand Under 18 hockey squad.

Johanna, who has been playing hockey since age 5, says that at the beginning of this season "I decided that this was what I was aiming for".

Johanna, who lives in Toko, is captain of the New Plymouth Girls' High School First XI hockey team and vice-captain of the Central North Island Under 18 team.

Johanna says she has gained a lot from playing hockey at both club and representative levels.

"There have definitely been a lot of life lessons, I certainly wouldn't be the same person without it." She adds that being involved in the sport has taught her the importance of good team work and how to get along with others.

Hockey has also seen here become involved with the community - Johanna works with Taranaki Hockey teaching skills to the Under 13 teams, as well as being involved in umpiring.

While Johanna has been selected for the New Zealand squad she says there is one more step before being selected for the team. "There are a few things I need to work on, I'd love to get fitter before the next round of selections."

Johanna is grateful to her family for all the support that they have shown, "they have done a lot of travelling over the years to support me at different tournaments and training camps". She adds "a big thanks" to all her coaches, especially her trainer Grant Boyde..