Territory Talent Shines on World Stage: Territory Stinger Jeremy Hayward makes waves at the 2024 Hockey India League auction.

Northern Territory’s own Jeremy Hayward, a Territory Stinger, Australian Kookaburra, and two time Olympian, has made waves at the 2024 Hockey India League auction. In a defining moment for Territory and Australian hockey, Hayward became the highest sought-after 
Australian player and third highest international player, being signed for an impressive 42 lakhs (AUD $74,116) by Punjab-based Soorman Hockey Club.

The five-week Hockey India League, which runs from December 28 – February 1, is one of the hockey world’s most prestigious competitions. It attracts top international talent and provides a platform for players to compete at the highest level. Hayward’s success at the auction is not only a personal achievement but also a testament to the Northern Territory’s ability to produce world-class athletes.

Born and raised in Darwin, Jeremy’s journey from the Territory to the global stage demonstrates the world-class calibre of athletes being produced right here in the Northern Territory. His achievements reflect not just his personal dedication but the potential of Territory hockey 
players when given the right pathways to success. Jeremy’s rise in international hockey underscores the importance of high-performance support, something the Territory Stingers are striving for as they prepare for their debut in the 2025 Malaysian National League.

“It was a nice little surprise yesterday!” Jeremy said about his auction success. “These auctions can sometimes be down to a bit of luck, and to be drawn on the first day definitely helps. I love playing in India, and I’m excited to meet my new team and play in the Hockey India League for Soorma Hockey Club.”

Hayward’s auction triumph comes just months after he represented Australia at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, his second Olympic appearance, further cementing his status as one of the top defenders in the game. An integral member of the Kookaburras since his debut in 2014, Jeremy has consistently demonstrated his prowess, recently helping Australia to a Pro League title and earning the title of ‘Best Defender’ at the 2023 World Cup.

For the Territory Stingers, Jeremy’s continued success provides a clear example of why highperformance programs are essential. The Stingers are not just a representative team, they embody the potential for Territory athletes to thrive on the international stage. As Jeremy 
continues to represent both the Northern Territory and Australia, he stands as a role model for the next generation of Stingers players who aspire to compete at the highest levels.

Jeremy will join India’s star captain Harmanpreet Singh at Soorman Hockey Club, a pairing that will surely be one to watch. Jeremy shared his excitement about teaming up with Singh, stating, "I'm over the moon to finally be on the same side as Harmanpreet. He’s been such an important player for India, and now I can learn from him and play alongside the Indian captain.”

The Territory continues to produce elite athletes like Hayward, who inspire and push the boundaries of what’s possible for Territory hockey. As the Territory Stingers prepare for the next chapter in their journey, Hayward’s achievements serve as a powerful reminder of the global 
opportunities that lie ahead for those who commit to high-performance sport.

Full list of Kookaburras in the Hockey India League:
Jeremy Hayward – NT – Soorman HC – 42 lakhs
Tim Brand – NSW – Hyderabad Toofans – 28 lakhs
Aran Zalewski – WA – Kalinga Lancers – 27 lakhs
Blake Govers – NSW – Tamil Nadu Dragons 27 lakhs
Tom Craig – NSW – Tamil Nadu Dragons – 20 lakhs
Tim Howard – QLD – Team Gonasika – 20 lakhs
Lachlan Sharp – NSW - Rarh Bengal Tigers – 18 lakhs
Nathan Ephraums – VIC – Tamil Nadu Dragons – 17 lakhs
Hayden Beltz – TAS – Rarh Bengal Tigers – 13 lakhs
Ky Willott – NSW - Delhi SG Pipers – 10.5 lakhs
Mathew Dawson - NSW – Hyderabad Toofans – 10 lakhs
Flynn Ogilvie – NSW - Delhi SG Pipers – 10 lakhs