INSPO Fitness Journal June 2017

TOP OF
THE FIELD
It may not have seemed it at the time, but a
lack of sporting options at primary school
turned out to be a blessing in disguise for
Hamilton’s Reuben Andrews.
Eight years ago Reuben took up hockey
at his rural primary school as it was the
only winter sport available.
Now the talented 18-year-old is a well
known face on the hockey field, having
captained his St Paul’s Collegiate team to a
Rankin Cup win before going on to make the
Midlands Under 21 side and New Zealand
Under 21 team.
Reuben is also a member of the Pathway
to Podium programme, which recognises
the potential of future sports stars and aims
to provide them with mentoring and skills
support.
“Being part of Pathway to Podium has
helped develop my knowledge of high
performance sport on and off the field,” says
Reuben.
“I have learned multiple new methods
and ways to improve aspects of my game.
Particularly beneficial has been working on
the areas of nutrition and mental toughness.
“And also tips on how to minimise pregame
nerves and boost confidence have been
extremely helpful.”
INSPO Fitness Journal finds out more…
What career path do you plan to pursue?
Property development, which is a family
business currently run by my grandfather.
Over the next few years I plan to try and
learn the ropes and one day hope to take it
over.
Outline your upcoming 12 months?
I am hoping to make Midlands Regional National
Men’s team to compete in the upcoming
national league tournament. Following
that I am aiming to be selected in the New
Zealand under 21 programme.
What has been your greatest successes to date?
Winning 2016 Rankin Cup (secondary school
hockey tournament) and being selected to
play in the Sultan of Johor cup for New Zealand
under 21s
What motivates you to keep involved and
competing?
The team aspect makes training more
enjoyable; to be able to catch up with some
good friends that I have made over my years
of playing. My motivation comes from my
competitiveness to be better. I always want to
learn something new and strive to improve. .
What is your greatest challenge?
Fitting my sport in around study, work and
social life
The team around you?
Simon Brill, the head of Midlands Hockey
has played a helpful role in my development
over the past years, helping me with learning
and a competitive training environment.
Frans van der Merwe has helped me with
strength and conditioning over the last year
through the hockey New Zealand and Midlands
programmes.
What does the sport involve?
Team training is based around the team
when everyone is free, normally at night. I
usually train five times a week for between
an hour and a half to two and a half hours, as
well as four strength and conditioning sessions
(two gym, two running) and two games.
What aspect of hockey do you enjoy most?
Spending time together as a team and performing
well.
What is your long-term goal?
To one day be competitive enough to represent
New Zealand at the Olympic Games.
Achieving this requires a lot more training,
to perfect my skills and ability.
Where in the world would you want to train
and compete?
India, because of the size of the crowds they
get and the atmosphere would be amazing.
Are you involved in other sports?
Cricket was my favourite sport until a couple
of years ago – and it just started to take too
long. Also, I really enjoy playing golf.
What advice would you give to others who
want to play hockey?
It’s better to play than to watch, so give it a go.
28 INSPO – FITNESS JOURNAL JUNE 2017