BIO:
The Midlands defender is one of four players in the current Black Sticks squad with more than 200 caps. Blair Hopping is just a handful away from the 250 mark and is likely to reach the joint 1000 milestone with his fellow double centurions Phil Burrows, Dean Couzins and Ryan Archibald during December’s Champions Trophy.
The 31-year-old works for turf supplier Tiger Turf and he made his debut back in 2000 against Pakistan.
Hopping has been to two Olympics and has a silver medal from the 2002 Commonwealth Games in Manchester.
|
Name:
Blair Hopping
Nickname:
Hoppz
Date of Birth:
12-08-1980
Birthplace:
Pukekohe
Town of Residence:
Kumeu
Occupation:
Sales Rep
Position:
Defender
Shirt Number:
7
NZ Debut:
2000 v Pakistan
NHL Team:
North Harbour
Career High:
Making two Olympics and silver medal at Manchester (CWG)
Career Low:
Missing semi's at Athens Olympics by 30 seconds
Sacrifices you have made to play hockey:
Work, money and time
Age you started playing at:
6
Hours of Training per week:
10-15
Toughest Opponent:
Steve Edwards
Who has been most influential in your career:
My parents
Strengths:
Scoring goals (or so I try and tell Shooter - aka Shane McLeod)
Weaknesses:
Biceps
Most Admired Sportsperson:
Roger Federer
Hobbies Outside of Hockey:
Touch Rugby, indoor cricket, chilling out
5 Words to Describe Yourself:
-
Favourite TV Show:
The Mentalist
Favourite Food:
Chicken pasta
Favourite Music:
Whatever
Favourite Book:
The Lost Symbol
Dislikes:
Annoying people
Advice for Young Players:
Learn, listen, learn
|
|
