Two of the South Australian Sports Institute’s (SASI’s) up-and-coming athletes are knocking on the door of the Hockeyroos after being selected for the 2021 National Women’s Development Squad (NDS).

Miki Spano and Amy Hammond are among the 24 players who have been selected from across Australia who are all aspiring to break into the Hockeyroos squad.

For Miki, this is the third consecutive year she’s been chosen for the squad which shows her consistency playing to such a high standard.

“Being selected for the National Development Squad again is a massive honour,” Spano said.

“I am looking forward to what the future holds for me on the back of this selection.”

Amy is a new addition to the squad who impressed while competing in an international junior series against Japan in February last year, playing for the Australian Junior Women’s Hockey Team (Jillaroos).

“I am very excited to have been named in the squad,” Hammond said.

“With last year being an unusual year with new difficulties, I am very pleased that I was able to achieve my goal of making the squad.”

SASI Head Hockey Coach Hugh Purvis shared his excitement for the girls saying it’s a well-deserved accolade.

“2020 was a challenging year for many and I’m thrilled to see two of SA’s athletes rewarded for their commitment and drive towards continued improvement, despite minimal competitive opportunities in their daily training environment,” Purvis said.

“Miki and Amy are fantastic people and athletes, and I’m looking forward to continuing to work with them to help them make the most of their opportunities, with hopefully a similarly positive narrative throughout the year.”

Border restrictions permitting, NDS athletes may be invited to train with the Hockeyroos squad in Perth as part of a Visitor Athlete Agreement.