Eddie Ockenden

Biography

Eddie Ockenden has been a stalwart of Australian field hockey ever since his international debut in 2006. Making waves early in his career, Eddie's first Olympic appearance was at Beijing 2008 and since then, he hasn't looked back. Known for his versatility as a midfielder and occasional striker, Eddie will bring unparalleled experience to the Kookaburras in Paris 2024.

Throughout his illustrious career, Eddie has played over 400 games for Australia, amassing numerous titles and accolades, including two World Cups and four Commonwealth Games gold medals. Despite these impressive achievements, Olympic gold has eluded him – but that only fuels his determination.

Eddie became the most capped Kookaburra, surpassing Jamie Dwyer's record in 2020. He holds this milestone dearly, appreciating the friendships and unforgettable moments shared with teammates. Recognized globally, Eddie won the FIH’s Young Player of the Year award in 2008 and was named Hockey Australia’s Player of the Year multiple times.

Highlights from his career include a dominant gold medal match at the 2010 Delhi Commonwealth Games and the critical goal against Germany in the 2010 World Cup final. Despite setbacks like the semi-final loss to Germany in the 2012 Olympics and a sixth-place finish in Rio 2016, Eddie remains driven and optimistic.

His fourth Olympic appearance in Tokyo 2020 saw him captaining the team to a silver medal, narrowly missing gold in a dramatic penalty shootout against Belgium. Undeterred, Eddie led Australia to another Commonwealth Games gold in Birmingham, extending his undefeated streak in the tournament.

Fitness and sheer love for the game are Eddie’s secrets to longevity. Teammates like Jeremy Hayward praise his tactical mind and commitment to continuous improvement. Paris 2024 is yet another chapter in Eddie’s incredible journey, where he hopes to finally capture the elusive Olympic gold.