Holland’s hockey exploits earn him state call-up

For the next few days, hockey will be the sole focus, with Sam donning Victoria’s representative colours to compete at the under-15 National Hockey Championships in Newcastle.

“It feels pretty good, I found out before a cricket game, looked on the website and saw my name which was great,” Sam said.

Sam also later found out he’d be taking on the role of vice captain, the team voting for him to lead the side during the championships.

The Holland family’s sporting exploits run deep, with Sam’s older brother, Connor, inducted into the Greater Shepparton Sports Hall of Fame earlier this year for his hockey achievements.

It won’t be long before the Hollands are jetting off on another sporting adventure, with Connor due to compete at the under-21 championships in Perth in July.

Sam said a healthy sibling rivalry had always given him a goal to work towards to.

“He’s a good role model, it’s good to have someone to try and beat and get better with,” he said.

Plying his trade at Shepparton Strikers Hockey Club in the local Goulburn Valley Hockey Association, Sam’s hard work and dedication over the past six years at the Smurf Turf is paying dividends.

He’s also played at Essendon Hockey Club, where his brother has also risen through the ranks, allowing them both to expand their game and hit new heights.

At state level, Sam is expected to operate in his preferred position in midfield, but says the priority will be playing wherever the team needs him.

“I’ll play mainly in the midfield but I’ll sometimes rotate into the backline a little bit,” he said.

“I like being in the mid, bit more running, wherever the ball goes, I just try and get it and get it forward, do the best for the team.”