After flying the flag at the 2014 Rabobank Hockey World Cup, in The Hague, recently, the South African men’s national hockey team player was, on Tuesday, June 17, selected as part of the 16-man squad who will take part at the XX Commonwealth Games, in Glasgow, Scotland, from July 23 to August 3.
Speaking of his selection for the team, the one-time Benoni Northerns junior hockey player said he was very nervous beforehand.
“Commonwealth Games selection is quite tough, with only 16 players being selected for the squad,” the 24-year-old said.
“Having 18 players at the World Cup meant that two players had to be dropped, so I was very nervous about this final selection of the year, as I thought the most experienced side would be selected.
“When the team was announced and I was in, I was ecstatic.
“Being part of Team SA at the Commonwealth Games is truly a dream come true.”
Eustice is confident that the men’s hockey team can return home from Glasgow with a medal.
“I believe that the work we did at the World Cup, just over a month ago, was great preparation for the games,” he added.
“We have a good chance of getting a medal and I feel that if we can do well in the pool stages and get to the semi-finals then anything can happen.
“Winning a medal will be truly amazing.”
In the meantime “The Lads” will leave for the Investec Cup, which takes places from July 9 to 13, as preparation for the Commonwealth Games.
The men’s competition involves four teams (South Africa, England, Ireland and Scotland).
They then head to Wales, for two-test series against the hosts, before a potential, final warm-up game against Canada.
“Our preparation looks good and I hope it helps us to reach our peak by the time the Games start,” Eustice said.
