Welcome to Hockey New Zealand. Skip directly to: main content, navigation, search box.

Stephen Graham

 

 

BIO:
Stephen is one of three goalkeepers in the current squad. He has superb mobility around the goal while his fast-twitch hand-eye coordination sees him excel with repelling first time shots. Stephen is constantly developing his game under the guidance of our top keeper Kyle Pontifex.

A physical education teacher from Tauranga, he made his international debut against the Netherlands in January 2007.The highlight of his career so far has been winning the National Hockey League with Midlands in 2008.

Stephen plays the piano and saxophone and also enjoys writing music.

Name:

Stephen Graham

Nickname:

Stevey G, S.G., Stivel

Date of Birth:

20/06/85

Birthplace:

Tauranga

Town of Residence:

Tauranga

Occupation:

Secondary school teacher

Position:

Goal keeper

Shirt Number:

15

NZ Debut:

vs Holland Jan 2007

NHL Team:

Midlands

Career High:

Being part of the Midlands winning team in 2008, who took out the NHL for the first time in its History

Career Low:

Torn hamstring during my last season at U21's while captaining the Central side in my home town

Sacrifices you have made to play hockey:

Time, money, social life, 21sts, weddings, junk food

Age you started playing at:

6

Hours of Training per week:

Varies, but around 14

Toughest Opponent:

Holland

Who has been most influential in your career:

Mum and Dad, Gill Gemming, Wayne Keats, Brett Chatfield, Julian Dapena

Strengths:

Hand eye, first time shots, mobility

Weaknesses:

Shots within 6 yards and a good steak

Most admired Sportsperson:

Michael Jordan

Hobbies Outside of Hockey:

Composing, Piano, Saxophone, Guitar, Touch, Cricket, Basketball, Netball, Soccer, BBQ's, hanging with mates and BYC

5 Words to Describe Yourself:

the super, relaxed, hungry, passionate, nice guy

Favourite TV Show:

My Name is Earl

Favourite Food:

Goody goody gum drops ice cream

Favourite Music:

Anything that isn't heavy or death metal

Favourite Book:

Dictionary - like to work up a mind sweat every once in a while


Dislikes:

Kumara and Pumpkin

Advice for Young Players:

Place high expectations on yourself and enjoy what you do. As at the end of the day these are what will determine how far you get.