Orkney teacher’s Hockey World Cup experience “surpasses all expectations”

An Orkney teacher was part of the Scotland over-35s squad who made it to the quarter finals of the Masters Hockey World Cup in South Africa last month (October). 

Hannah Cromarty, who works at Papdale Primary School, says she “loved every single minute” of the experience and pulling on the Scotland shirt as vice-captain of the squad. 

Family and friends back in Orkney were able to witness the squad’s progress as the event was live streamed for all to see back home. 

Hannah said: “We went into it not really sure what to expect - we just wanted to enjoy it, but from there we came second in our group stage which meant we progressed into the quarter finals. We lost out to the Netherlands – a great hockey nation. We had held out for a draw and in the very last play of the game they scored which made it a bit harder to take, but they went on to win the silver medal, so it shows their calibre. 

“We had already played New Zealand, Wales and Zimbabwe and achieved two wins and a draw. We were quite delighted with that as we were one of the few teams to go through to the next stages without conceding a goal – as a defender I was extremely chuffed with that.” 

The South African team went on to win gold – a game that Hannah says was “amazing” to watch. 

“The standard was really high within the World Cup, as were expectations. The preparation was different too. During the build-up I attended at least one training weekend every month which was a big commitment timewise with the travelling but also financially. I was fortunate to be able to do that thanks to the support of local businesses and my family. 

“Playing seven games in ten days was also a challenge physically and preparing yourself mentally for each of those is hard work but the coaches were fantastic throughout.” 

It wasn't all work and no play for the squad who managed a couple of days sightseeing, including a trip up Table Mountain and this may not be the last we see of Hannah with the Scottish squad. 

“I had been very much of the opinion that given the financial cost this would be the last one but there’s the European Championships in June next year in Valencia so I’m quite keen for that now having experienced this one. 

“On the back of the Island Games 2025, Orkney is hosting an interisland hockey tournament in July 2025. The tournament was last held in 2015 – and Orkney are the reigning champions.  

“We are hoping to have teams from Shetland, Gibraltar, Jersey, Guernsey, and the Isle of Man so really looking forward to showcasing our sport in front of a home crowd. 

“After all these years of putting on a Scotland top, it's a great feeling to think that I could inspire others to keep going with a sport that they love, even when age isn't on your side! The possibilities that Masters events has opened up for hockey and other sports really is incredible and I would highly recommend getting involved if you can.”