Angels supporter Ollie Graham (pictured far right) is preparing to represent his country after being selected for the England Hockey ID team ahead of the first-ever FIH Para Hockey World Cup.
Ollie, who plays his hockey for Tunbridge Wells HC, has been named in the England squad that will travel to Belgium and the Netherlands for the historic tournament, which takes place between 20 and 24 August.
The inaugural competition will bring together Para Hockey teams from around the world, with England competing in Pool B alongside Argentina, Bulgaria, Chile, India, Malaysia, the Netherlands and Spain.
England begin their campaign with two matches on Thursday, 20 August, taking on India before facing Argentina later in the day.
For Ollie, the achievement is made even more impressive by the fact that his journey in the sport only began two years ago.
“I’ve only been playing for two years and Para Hockey means so much to me. I would definitely encourage anyone with a disability to get involved.
“I normally play on the wing, but I can also play in defence.”
Hockey ID represents the elite level of disability hockey for players with intellectual disabilities, with those selected meeting international eligibility criteria to compete at the highest level.
England head into the World Cup having won silver at each of the last two European Championships, as well as gold at the Special Olympics.
Ollie will now have the opportunity to represent his country on the world stage as part of a landmark moment for Para Hockey.
Everyone at Tonbridge Angels would like to congratulate Ollie on his selection and wish him, his teammates and the England coaching staff the very best of luck at the World Cup.
We’ll be cheering you on, Ollie!
