The players who will shape Hockey Premier League Grand Finals

The players who will shape Hockey Premier League grand finals

The battle for Hockey Premier League glory will be held this weekend; Adam Clifford previews both games.

MEN’S PREVIEW

It’s the grand final script you couldn’t write better if you tried. Five‑time Olympian Eddie Ockenden — the undisputed GOAT of Australian hockey — returns to the Premier League’s biggest stage with his boyhood club, chasing a sixth premiership.

For hockey fans, his name is already etched alongside the sport’s immortals; for everyone else, think of a player who has done it all — five Olympic Games, multiple World Cup and Commonwealth Games golds, and carrying the nation’s flag at an Olympic Games.

Now, the most capped Australian player is back where it all began, with the chance to deliver one more defining moment in front of the people who first cheered him on.

Standing in his way are the minor premiers University, desperate to end the competition’s longest active title drought — 23 years since their triumph in 2002.

They’ve been the ‘bridesmaids’ in recent seasons, but this year the ‘Stuies’ believe they have the balance, belief, and firepower to finally break through.

Their last meeting was one for the ages. Uni led 5‑4 at half‑time in a free‑flowing shootout before running away 7‑4 in a game, and if this decider is anything like that, fans are in for a treat.

Gamebreakers

Eddie Ockenden (NWG) – The masterful Ockenden can split a defence with a single pass, glide out of trouble with the ball on a string, or throw himself into the grind when the moment demands it. His calm authority lifts those around him, and his ability to deliver in big moments is unmatched.

Ben Read (UNI) – Since debuting in 2009, the son of former Australian goalkeeper Ken has dreamed of lifting the cup for his beloved club. A remarkable 25 kg weight loss has underpinned a 26‑goal season — he’s fitter, sharper, and hungrier than ever.

Harley Wilkie (NWG) – Thrust into the starting goalkeeper role late in the season, Wilkie has grown in confidence with every outing. Exceptionally composed during penalty‑corner defence, his still, balanced stance and sharp tracking unsettle opposition flickers. In a match likely to hinge on fine margins, his set‑piece composure could be decisive.

Sam Payne (UNI) – Courageous and selfless in set‑piece defence, Payne’s width and rebounding runs from the back are vital in creating space for Uni’s highly reputable forwards.

Angus McMullen (NWG) – Fresh from his maiden Premier League MVP award, McMullen’s clever decision‑making and surging runs from midfield make him a constant threat. If NWG can build sustained forward pressure, expect him to be in the thick of it.

Tyson Johnson (UNI) – Nicknamed ‘Gary’, his high‑pressure, no‑fear style has been a hallmark of Uni’s rise. His ability to pinch possession or create the unexpected in the attacking circle could break open a tight contest.

GAME DETAILS

Women’s Grand Final – North West Graduates v DiamondBacks, 1.15pm

Men’s Grand Final – North West Graduates v University, 3pm

WOMEN’S PREVIEW

The defending champions are back — and they’ve brought their most dangerous weapon with them.

Last year, DiamondBacks coach Vanessa McDonald delivered a tactical masterclass from the penalty corners en route to the title, and the set piece battle looms large again. The reigning premiers have the personnel and precision to punish any lapse, while North West Graduates must rid their finals shackles to lay the foundations for their striker line to feast.

Their semi‑final meeting was a heart‑stopper: NWG led 3‑1 in the penalty shootout before the D’Backs stormed back to snatch victory in sudden death. That comeback kept their title defence alive and set the stage for another fierce battle between the competition’s top two. In 2025, they’ve met four times: the D’Backs hold a 3–1 edge, with three of those games decided by a single goal.

Gamebreakers

Sophie Kruimink (DBS) – The newly crowned league MVP, edging sister Belle by seven votes, has been the competition’s most consistent and influential midfielder. She’ll be central to the D’Backs’ most dangerous moves, with sibling rivalry adding spice.

Millie Smith (NWG) – Fresh from premiership success with Queechy Penguins in the Greater Northern League, Smith’s powerful, enigmatic presence in midfield could be the key to unlocking the D’Backs’ defence.

Jess Stevens (DBS) – Conceded just 17 goals in the regular season while marshalling a disciplined backline. Her battle with Belle Kruimink at penalty corners could decide the title, and her shootout record is formidable.

Chloe Cooper (NWG) – Tough tackling and incisive passing from deep mean Cooper adds an extra bow. Her willingness to alter the point of attack could catch the champions off‑guard.

Em Donovan (DBS) – One of Tasmania’s most decorated players, Donovan’s mid‑season return from a knee injury transformed their fortunes. A key link in attacking penalty‑corner routines, her work rate and knack for interceptions can swing momentum instantly.

Ash Arthur (NWG) – The Premier League’s all‑time leading goal‑scorer returned mid‑season from maternity leave. If NWG’s set‑piece struggles persist, her instinctive finishing could be their path to glory.

Written by Adam Clifford for the Mercury