Rock solid defence was everywhere at the Labrador hockey fields when police officers and players from the Australian Defence Force met at the Pan Pacific Masters Games (3 – 11 November) on Wednesday.
Denis Paice, 45, was preparing for the lawful encounter this morning when he joined his police hockey team, the Nightsticks, to take on former teammates Defence Hockey.
“I’ve been in the police force for six years, prior to that I was in the defence forces,” said Denis.
“I worked in Logan for four years and I’ve been based in Coomera for 18 months as highway patrol.
“I’ve played hockey since I was about five and I’m turning 46 this month.”
Coming from far and wide to meet on the field and compete together, each player had a different experience to share.
“We’ve got everything from a police dog trainer to a senior detective of arson to a prison guard,” said Denis.
“I think our longest serving officer has been in the force for about 20 years.”
The Nightsticks went into battle against players that were nearly 10 years younger than them by virtue of the fixture being a catch-up match.
“We are in the 40+ age category but our opposition is in the 30+ category,” said Denis.
“I’m the goalie for this game, but I don’t mind being on the field as well – it keeps you fit and active.”
Finals will be played this Friday (9am to 8pm) and Saturday (8am to 4pm) at the Gold Coast Hockey Stadium where Denis and his team are hoping to feature.
The new system was born here and filagra this is not something that we would like to see. Caverta whilst better in some elements but not important for us.
