Teen shines in WA’s bronze victory

Albany teenager Harry Keymer has played a key role in WA securing a bronze medal at the Australian Under-21 Hockey Championships that wrapped up in Lismore, New South Wales, last week.

Keymer made a welcome return to WA colours in the men’s under-21 side after several years of disappointment and he grabbed his chance with both hands as one of the youngest members in the team.

The 19-year-old was a vital part of WA’s midfield mix, starting in four of the six games as his side finished the tournament by winning the bronze medal match against South Australia.

WA were on the wrong end of a thrilling preliminary final against Victoria last Tuesday, losing an epic encounter 4-5.

Victoria scored the first two goals but WA hit back to level scores by three-quarter-time.

However, in a frenzied final quarter, Victoria scored three more goals to book a place in the gold medal decider.

Keymer and his WA teammates rebounded strongly as they easily accounted for South Australia 4-0 and claim bronze.

He started in WA’s first two wins over NSW Blue and Tasmania and then came off the bench in their 2-2 draw with Queensland and the 5-3 semifinal win over Australian Capital Territory.

A Lower Great Southern Hockey Association product, Keymer is now playing with Fremantle at premier league level which led to his selection as an underage member of the team.