Shand is one of three debutants to join the 22-player squad which has a strong focus on the Paris 2024 Olympic Games.

Speaking about getting the call up, the talented defender is enjoying the moment but is also looking forward to what comes next.

“Being selected to be part of the Hockeyroos squad is huge honour and something that I have been working towards my whole life,” Shand said.

“Now that I have cracked the squad, I’m excited to see what the next chapter holds, and look forward to further challenging myself to improve and become a better athlete every day.

“SASI has played a huge role in helping me achieve this milestone; from developing me physically and mentally as well as technically and tactically on and off the pitch.

“The SASI staff are experts at what they do, and the athletes that I have trained alongside are such a special bunch and people who I call family.”

Shand joins fellow SASI graduate and longstanding team member Jane Claxton on the squad, who competed as part of the team at the Tokyo Olympics last year.

SASI Head Hockey Coach Hugh Purvis has played an instrumental role in getting Shand to this point and spoke about how fantastic it has been to have her as part of the program.

“Her focus, drive and energy to strive for personal excellence has been an inspiration for the other athletes and myself in the daily training environment,” Purvis said.

“She will be missed and the Hockeyroos will be lucky to have her.

“All of her peers and the hockey program staff wish her all the best and we can’t wait to see her performing on the international stage.”

Shand will now make the move to Perth to commence training with the squad – we know she will make us proud!