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Waugh inspiration for Kookaburras

Steve Waugh was the source of information and inspiration for Australian men's hockey team on Thursday, in a private session dedicated to the Olympic hopefuls.

The hiccup of the Australian captain missing the appointment that was due to take place the day before was quickly forgotten when the icon carried in his 'Baggy Green Cap' early Thursday afternoon and began to speak of the pride and passion associated with wearing the Green and Gold.

Although expectation can often transcend the reality of meeting persons of fame or reputation, first-time Olympian Michael Brennan could not speak highly enough of the experience of the meeting with Waugh.

"It's almost awe-inspiring being face-to-face with a person like that compared with seeing them on TV - when they speak about wearing the 'Baggy Green Cap' and seeing first hand, the desire and passion in him when he speaks."

In the hour-long exchange between the cricketer and the Olympic team, Waugh was reported to have shared his insights into dealing with tough situations, handling the pressure of home crowds and spoken at length about wearing the national colours.

Wearing the 'the Green and Gold' is something that the men's hockey team identified with closely and in light of their startling loss to the NSW Institute team, 5-1, in Wednesday's practice match, Waugh's comments couldn't have come at a more poignant time for the Kookaburras.

"To be almost embarrassed last night and to then have Stave talk to us today about how important it should be each and every time you step onto the field in National colours, and was probably the best lesson we could have had at this stage.

"It's reminded us how important every little thing now is and that everything we do needs to done at 100 per cent," Brennan reflected.

Waugh's words and the fact that the Kookaburras have been immersed in the Olympic environment during their week-long camp in Sydney has ensured that their sights stay clearly focused.

"The last month has been really hard work and to take a break from the high intensity load and concentrate on more finite skills gives you that added burst," 24-year-old Brennan said.

The team has used the camp to familiarise themselves with the Olympic environment by maximising their time on the Olympic pitch and at the stadium, and visiting the Athlete's Village.

"Walking onto the Olympic pitch is actually pretty daunting now that the stands are completed and it gives you goosebumps the first time you enter the [Olympic Village] - it's pretty awesome" Brennan said.

The men's hockey team launches into a three-Test series against Pakistan next Tuesday in Perth. The series will be their final rehearsal against international opposition before the Olympics commence in just six weeks.

AHA media release