17 September 2011
“I hope my story can encourage youngsters who may think if they keep playing, even if it is for a little club like Sudbury, there is nothing to stop them,” said Tim.
“Forty people were invited for the trials and that number was then whittled down to 21. First of all it was tremendous to be handed a trial and even better to be called up for Singapore.
“To have made the East of England team was an achievement in itself for me and to represent my country is quite astonishing. I get goose-bumps when the national anthem is played and I think this call-up has put Sudbury on the map.”
Tim believes England have a good chance of going all the way in the tournament, which provides age-group competitions in five-year stages between the ages of 40 and 70.
“We are going out there (Singapore) with a good team and the players have just come back from Germany as European champions,” he said.
“The team is made up of some current internationals and some players who will be making their debuts. Tournaments like this can only help raise the profile of age-group hockey.”
Tim’s Far East adventure is costing in the region of £4,000 (including kit, flight and accomodation) and he is seeking sponsorship to help fund the trip.
To sponsor him contact tim.blackburn@shc.org.uk.