August 2015 = Zach's off to Spain
Zach Tait has been selected for the Great Britain Under 19 Underwater Hockey team for the World Age Cup taking place In Castellon De La Plana, Spain.
A member of Rochdale Junior Underwater Hockey club, he was brought into the GB squad in August 2014. He made the cut from 24 squad members to the final 12 in trials which took place in Plymouth during May 2015.
Zach’s dad Ian, who also plays and coaches the sport, said “This is an amazing achievement given he is still only 16 and will be one of the youngest ever players to take part in the games. The physical transformation from 16 years to 19 in such an athletic sport is massive and for him to make the team is a credit to his determination. My thanks go to his Rochdale, Manchester and GB coaches and Link4life who provide their facilities to him free of charge. ”
Zach will fly to Spain with the GB squad in early August for the final training camp and the World Cup takes place 6th to 15th August. Teams taking part are from countries as far afield as Columbia, Australia, New Zealand & USA, along with European teams.
Coach Mick Hyde said, “Zach has shown great determination and application in achieving his place on the GB team. His overall fitness, teamwork and personal skills have improved dramatically over the last 2 years and he has earned his reward of a place representing his country”
The sport is perfect for those who like to swim but where just swimming lengths is not always appealing, but still want a competitive challenge.
The participants wear mask, snorkel and fins and push a lead puck using a small bat into goals on the bottom of each end of the pool. For anybody wanting to try the sport, Rochdale play on Thursday nights 7.30 – 9pm at Oulder Hill Leisure Centre, Rochdale. For more information please call Mick on 07951834903