Australia will appear as a guest team at the International Masters Hockey Association’s European Cup in Tilburg, Netherlands from August 7 to 20. 

Cheryl’s invitation to join the team follows on from the National Championships in Tasmania last year. 

She has been a member of the NSW team since 2001 and was selected as a shadow player in the masters team for the Nationals in Hobart before she was called up to play.

Now Cheryl has the opportunity to play for Australia overseas, which she said was a thrill. 

“It is always a surprise to get called in to represent your country. Being in the green and gold is fantastic and hearing your national anthem play always brings a lump to the throat.”

She is one of six NSW players to be selected for the Aussie team, which will face off against the major European hockey powers, notably host nation the Netherlands. 

Cheryl expected it to be a challenge. 

“There are a number of us that should be in an over 55s age group, but there isn’t an over 55s team, so it will be quite tough for us,” she said.

“We will be trying to keep up with the younger players.”

Cheryl is now working hard on her training towards top fitness and preparation for the competition. 

“You’ve got to be dedicated,” she said.