Wales Name Men's Hockey World Cup Squad as History Beckons Again

Cardiff, Wales – Hoci Cymru is proud to announce the Wales men's squad selected for the upcoming FIH Hockey Men's World Cup, as the nation prepares to compete on hockey's biggest stage for only the second time in its history.

The squad announcement marks the continuation of a remarkable journey for Welsh hockey. After making history by competing at the FIH Hockey Men's World Cup in India, Wales now returns to the sport's premier event for only the second time ever. The opportunity to compete at consecutive World Cups is a significant milestone for the programme and underlines the progress made by players, coaches and support staff in establishing Wales amongst the world's leading hockey nations.

Featuring a blend of experienced internationals and exciting emerging talent, the squad reflects the strength, ambition and resilience that have become hallmarks of the men's programme. With preparations now intensifying ahead of the tournament, anticipation is building across the Welsh hockey community as the team prepares to represent the nation on the global stage.

Paul Whapham, Chief Executive of Hoci Cymru, said:

"Today is a hugely significant moment for Welsh hockey as we announce the squad that will represent Wales at the FIH Hockey Men's World Cup.

"To qualify for the World Cup was a fantastic achievement, but to now see the players selected and preparing to compete on the world's biggest stage brings a real sense of excitement and pride. Returning to the World Cup for only the second time in our history is a remarkable milestone and demonstrates just how far this programme has come.

"The experience gained in India has provided a strong foundation for this group, and there is real belief and ambition within the squad as they prepare for the challenges ahead. Every player selected has earned the opportunity through their dedication, hard work and commitment to representing Wales at the highest level.

"This squad carries the hopes of the entire Welsh hockey community, and we know they will wear the red shirt with immense pride."

Katie Glynn, Director of Performance at Hoci Cymru, added:

"A World Cup squad announcement is always a special occasion, and this group has every reason to be excited about the opportunity ahead.

"Competing at one World Cup is a huge achievement. Earning the right to return and compete again on the sport's biggest stage is a reflection of the progress, consistency and belief that has been built throughout the programme over recent years.

"There is a fantastic balance of experience and emerging talent within this squad. The players have shown they can compete with the best teams in the world and they now have another opportunity to showcase Welsh hockey on the global stage.

"The entire group is determined to make the most of this moment. We know how much it means to represent Wales, and we hope their journey inspires the next generation of players to dream big and follow in their footsteps."

For the players, coaches and support staff, selection marks the beginning of the final countdown to the tournament. For Welsh hockey supporters, it is another proud moment in the sport's history and an opportunity to rally behind a team that continues to break new ground.

As Wales prepares to take its place amongst the world's elite once again, excitement continues to grow for what promises to be another memorable chapter in the story of Welsh hockey.

Wales men squad: Toby Reynolds-Cotterill (GK), Rhys Payne (GK),

Daniel Kyriakides, Hywel Jones, Gareth Furlong (C), Alf Dinnie, Jacob Draper (C), Rhodri Furlong, Dale Hutchinson, Rhys Bradshaw, Fred Newbold, Gareth Griffiths, Ben Francis (C), Nic Morgan, Jack Pritchard, Jolyon Morgan, Sam Welsh, Jonny Fleck, James Tyson, Liam Barker.