Geraldton hockey veteran Dirranie Kirby part of Australian gold medal-winning team at Masters Hockey World Cup

Geraldton’s hockey goalie superstar Dirranie Kirby helped Australia win gold at the Masters Hockey World Cup in New Zealand this month.

Kirby represented her country in the International Masters Cup tournament from November 8-15 as part of the second Australian over-45s team.

The team faced tough international opponents with remarkable determination and skill and had only four training sessions before their opening match against New Zealand.

However, the team quickly found their stride, with a 1-0 friendly win against the USA 50s setting the tone for a successful tournament.

Highlights included a 0-0 draw against Argentina, who reached the gold medal match, and a commanding 3-1 victory over Germany, a team featuring a dual gold medal-winning Olympian.

Kirby described the experience as challenging and rewarding.

“We played with heart, skill, and determination, showing we could match it with anyone on any given day,” she said.

Kirby’s defensive efforts helped limit opponents to just five goals across six matches.

The team’s crowning achievement was winning the IMC gold medal after a hard-fought victory over Alliance IMC, a team of players from England, New Zealand, and Canada.

Kirby thanked her coach, family, and friends. “It’s always an honour to wear the Australian uniform, and to do it at a World Cup was something really special,” she said.