LYNDOCH’S Bailee Major enjoyed the opportunity of a lifetime last month as she travelled to Spain to captain the Australian senior women’s in-line hockey side at the World Roller Games.
The Aussie side finished 12th in the world, which was the same ranking they received in 2018.
Despite the team not achieving its goal of a top-10 finish, the 22-yearold said it was an unbelievable experience.
“It was amazing, it was a once in a lifetime opportunity, we had some serious competition over there,” Major said.
“There’s nothing else quite like representing your country.
“That first game, stepping out for the first time in your Australian jersey, singing the national anthem and getting ready with the team, I can’t even begin to describe how proud I was.”
The Aussies started their campaign in perfect style, with a big win over the Chinese.
Major said the 6-0 win over China was an “amazing way to start off the tournament”.
“It was emotional afterwards in the change rooms,” she said.
While she was in Spain captaining an Australian side, Major’s Barossa, Light & Gawler women’s football team Barossa District took home the senior premiership.
She was forced to choose her hockey over footy, but said being around the group was still terrific.
“It definitely was, I really missed playing with the girls, but I was the head trainer,” Major said.
“Winning the flag…it’s not the same not being on the field, but just being involved is pretty good.”
The next journey for Major is right at home, with STARplex set to host the Australian In-line Hockey Championships for the second year running in October.
“I love playing at home, especially somewhere close to where I live,” she said.