A BANGOR hockey player has realised a lifelong dream after been called up to represent Wales in the Masters World Cup in South Africa.
Tasha Hatton of Clwb Hoci Dinas Bangor will take to the field for her country on Saturday, October 12 when Wales Over 35s take on Zimbabwe in their opening match at Western Province Hockey Club.
For the mum-of-four it's a chance to finally compete for international honours.
"I have played hockey since I was 12," she said. "Originally I played with Pwllheli for 20 years and for the last three years I've been with Bangor.
"I was first selected to represent Wales when I was 17, but I was unable to play as I was pregnant.
"So to have another opportunity now - and for my children to be able to watch me on live stream competing in South Africa - is an incredible privilege."
Games will be streamed from Cape Town live on the South African Masters Hockey Association Youtube Channel and Tasha is confident Wales will do well having finished third in their last World Cup.
"To represent your country is an honour," she said. "But to represent your country in a World Cup, with such an awesome squad, is something special.
"Wales Over 35s did so well last time out and while that was a different squad, there are still a few members with us this time who know what it takes.
"Hopefully myself and some of the other new players will be able to add to that winning formula and go one step further.
"I'm just hoping to inspire my children. Both my daughters play hockey and for them to see me out there representing Wales is a massive thing for them. My parents too, because they have been so supportive on my hockey journey.
"Representing Wales on the world stage at any level is an amazing opportunity and I hope that while we are over there we can inspire more women and girls of all ages to try sport."
Support has been key for all the Wales players. There is no funding for the Welsh Masters teams so players have to fund their own travel, accommodation and expenses.
"Once selected players rely on sponsorship to represent Wales," said Wales Over 35s Social Media Lead Hannah Bevan. "To get to South Africa and compete is around £4,000.
"But for these women this is a rare chance to represent Wales on the international stage. It's a chance to show their children what is possible and a real opportunity to achieve something special.
"There are a number of teams in this year's tournament that Wales have not faced before like Zimbabwe and New Zealand, so it will be an interesting tournament.
"But the fact that hockey offers Masters competition from Over 35s to Over 75s is incredible and means it's never too late to have one more shot at international glory."
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