My name is Troy Williamson, the Head Coach of the Australian Men’s Masters Hockey 45s for the 2026 Masters Hockey World Cup. Following the 2024 National Titles, I was honoured to be selected to coach the Australian team. I’m writing to respectfully seek your support, financial or in kind to help me attend and lead our national team through this campaign, while elevating First Nations participation and visibility on a global stage. Our campaign begins with a training camp in England, followed by the World Cup in Rotterdam, the Netherlands, in July 2026.

Why I’m Seeking Support? - At our level, participation is entirely self funded, over the past decade, I have personally covered costs to represent our sport both nationally and internationally. The cumulative expenses flights, accommodation, training camps, equipment, ground transport, and time away from work have taken a genuine financial toll.

I am not seeking to have this whole trip paid for; I’m asking for support to ensure I can be there and continue to represent at the highest level. Specifically, I am seeking $2,500 to cover a portion of the associated cost ($7,500) to ensure I can participate and represent at the World Cup.

Hockey for me is far more than a sport it’s a passion that has shaped who I am. I’m not a generational hockey player; in fact, I’m the first in my family to ever pick up a stick. From the grass fields of Echuca, hockey has opened doors I never imagined possible, giving me lifelong friendships, incredible opportunities, and moments I’ll carry forever. Now, I have the chance to represent Australia on the world stage. Competing in Europe the heartland of hockey is a boyhood dream I never thought would be within reach. The costs associated with travelling, training, and participating internationally are significant, but so is the opportunity. This experience represents not just a personal milestone, but the culmination of years of dedication, hard work, and love for the game.

This opportunity is also a deeply personal triumph. Growing up in a country town, raised by a single parent, I wasn’t expected to achieve much from those outside my family. In fact one secondary teacher even told me I should focus on “lodging my doll form on time" outlining that would be a great result for me in adulthood. But I’ve always believed that from little things, big things truly do grow. Reaching this level is something I want my mum and my family to see, because it reflects our journey and the resilience that has carried us forward. I hope this inspires others, especially young people from regional communities, to see what’s possible when you back yourself. For those who know me and know how much I love this sport, this achievement isn’t just personal — it’s an opportunity to lift participation, spark motivation, and showcase just how wonderful hockey is within my community.