Andrew Scanlon may look back on his experience with the Australian under-21 hockey team as a career launching pad.
Scanlon was shocked to be included in the touring party for the Sultan of Johor Cup in Malaysia, but grabbed the opportunity with both hands.
Not only did the 18-year-old feature prominently in defence for Australia in its run to the bronze medal, he scored a goal from the penalty corner in the 6-2 win over arch-rival New Zealand in the third place playoff game.
“To play in that game was pretty awesome – it was definitely good to win it,” Scanlon told Star Weekly.
Scanlon received an email earlier this year confirming his selection in the squad and initially the Werribee resident wasn’t certain it was meant for him.
“I was just surprised that I made it, but I was pretty stoked with it,” he said.
Scanlon, who plays for Altona in the Hockey Victoria premier league, did not get overawed by the big crowds or the strong level of competition.
He scored three goals in the six games in the tournament and more than held his own at the back.
“I did all right but you can always get better,” he said. “It was a lot different to playing back home but it was good.
“I had only been overseas once before and playing in front of a massive crowd was a great experience.
“I’ve got to keep improving to try to make the team again next time Australia sends a team.”
Scanlon was content with his side’s third place finish, admitting that India and Great Britain – the two teams who featured in the final with India prevailing 2-1 in a nail-biter – were the superior nations over the course of the tournament.
“I would’ve rather win the cup but I’m still pretty happy with third,” he said. “India and Great Britain had pretty good sides as well and they were just better at the time.”
