BIO:
One of the world’s best defenders and highly regarded by his international opponents, Blair’s combination with Dean Couzins has been the backbone of the Black Sticks defence for many years. Blair is able to shut down the world’s best attacking teams with his amazing tackling ability, and he also has great composure on the ball.
With more than 250 caps, he has been to both the Athens and Beijing Olympics and has a silver medal from the 2002 Commonwealth Games.
Blair lives in Kumeu, works for turf supplier TigerTurf, is married to Kylie and they are expecting their first child.
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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
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