29 April 2024
The ADF ice hockey team glided to victory with a 13-7 win in a high-scoring match against NSW Police in Sydney.
After winning both games in the past two years, centre wing Aircraftman Connor Bolger said the competition between them was getting tougher.
“It’s a great rivalry and playing against another government body makes it much more competitive,” he said.
“I scored two goals, but it’s a team effort; everyone contributes to getting the puck in the net. These games give us a chance to apply the same team disciplines as we do in our jobs.”
During the April 23 game, Defence had a good start, scoring the first goal to set the pace of many more to come.
Despite a lop-sided final score, the game was a back-and-forth affair, with the police applying significant pressure and controlling play for parts of the game.
In the second period, NSW Police fought back, scoring goals to narrow the margin.
They went in strong in the third period and maintained momentum, but it wasn’t enough to overtake Defence, despite some late goals.
Third-line centre Lieutenant Commander Stephen Wall said the last three minutes were the toughest.
“Third period was the most intense of the game; they got a couple of quick goals early in the period and really fought right to the end,” he said.
“This was my first game against them. There’s a lot of pride in both groups.”
Originally from Canada, Lieutenant Commander Wall said hockey there was like rugby league in Australia.
“I’ve played my whole life,” he said.
“When I came down I knew some folks who played, and they asked me if I wanted to join. I was really impressed by the quality of play in Australia.
“ADF is very supportive, no matter where you are in the skill spectrum, as long as you want to be fit and competitive.”
