Nelson in Vantage Black Sticks squad

HOCKEY New Zealand is pleased to announce the Vantage Black Sticks Men’s squad for the upcoming Summer of Hockey series in Hamilton, marking the team’s return to home soil as they begin a critical build-up toward the 2026 FIH World Cup.

Included in the squad is our very own Gus Nelson of Aria. “Getting to wear the fern and play in front of a home crowd is a dream come true.” says Gus.

“The support and messages I have received from the King Country has been unbelievable and very appreciated. I would especially like to thank the people who coached me during my time at Aria School and playing for King Country Hockey for the impact they had on not just my hockey career but also who I am as a person.

“Also thank you to the Piopio Charitable Trust for their generous support during my time with the NZ Under-21 team.”

The Summer of Hockey series will be held at the Gallagher Hockey Centre which will now host a four-test-match international series between New Zealand and Japan. The series also marks the first time the Vantage Black Sticks Men have played on home soil since the Oceania Cup in Whangarei in 2023 and comes off the back of a strong end to 2025, including a bronze medal finish at
the Sultan of Azlan Shah Cup in Malaysia and a gold medal finish at the FIH Nations Cup also in Malaysia.

Fans can expect fast, physical and highly competitive hockey as the team takes important steps forward in a World Cup year. Captain Sam Lane says starting the new cycle at home is a huge boost for the group.

“It’s exciting to start our very important 2026 World Cup year at home playing in front of our fans again. Although we love traveling together as a squad, nothing beats playing at home. We've got an exciting squad, despite a few injuries, and having the experience and quality of players like Nic Woods and Kane Russell back in the group is a massive boost heading into a World Cup year.”

Hockey New Zealand looks forward to welcoming fans to Hamilton to support the Vantage Black Sticks Men as they take on Japan and launch an exciting year of international hockey on home turf. The Summer of Hockey series runs from January 30 to February 4. Tickets are available at www.blacksticksnz.co.nz
Source: www.blacksticksnz.co.nz