16. The Help Side - Jane Claxton - Part A

#TheHelpSide We're delighted to have Hockeyroos midfielder, Jane Claxton, on the show. Now Jane comes from some pretty good stock…listeners of the show and followers of hockey in Australia might recognise the name ‘Claxton’ from this year's class of Hockey Australia Life Member inductees, her father Bob being awarded the honour as recognition of a lifetime of service to hockey. 

 

In 183 games for the Hockeyroos, Claxton has appeared at two World Cup's, two Commonwealth Games, an Olympics, and has had the honour of captaining her country. Jane has come to be recognised as one of Australia’s most consistent performers, and anyone who’s witnessed her play live would have heard her commanding tone carry across the pitch to her teammates – your prototypical General of the midfield. You’ll find Jane to be the consummate professional, and her achievements and success in the green and gold of the Hockeyroos really shouldn’t come as a surprise after hearing her take on what it takes to perform at the highest level. 

 

Jane takes us on her voyage from coming up through the ranks in Adelaide to what it’s really like to represent your country, including some elements that people don’t often talk about. With the highs of playing for your country, come inevitable lows and hard times that don’t always make the front page, but remain part and parcel of the gig and Jane openly shares her story of navigating the pitfalls of elite sport. One aspect of international sport, is the joy of travelling the world and with this, comes a ‘roomie’, and Jane reveals that she might not be the top of everyone's ‘most desirable roomie’ list. Jane is smart, articulate, and the embodiment of an elite athlete. Please enjoy The Help Side of, Jane Claxton.