Hariett Ngaire Shand, known as Hattie Shand, was born on January 11, 2000, in Naracoorte, South Australia. She is a prominent defender for the Australian women’s national field hockey team, the Hockeyroos, and is recognized for her consistency, composure, and leadership on the field.
Early Life and Background
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Grew up in Langkoop, Victoria, near Apsley, and attended Naracoorte Primary and High School.
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Began playing hockey at age nine in her hometown.
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Moved from her family’s sheep farm to Adelaide to board at Scotch College and pursue elite hockey.
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She is of Australian and Maori heritage.
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Studies part-time for a Bachelor of Animal Science at the University of Adelaide.
Domestic and Club Career
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Represented South Australia at every age group from U12 to U21.
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Played for SA Suns in the Australian Hockey League (2017–2018).
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Since 2019, a member of Adelaide Fire in the Hockey One League, helping the team to a third-place finish in the inaugural season.
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Plays club hockey for Adelaide Hockey Club in South Australia’s Premier League.
International Career
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Made her Australia U21 debut in 2018 and served as co-vice-captain for the Jillaroos (U21s) in 2020.
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Competed in junior internationals against India, New Zealand, and Japan.
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Selected for the senior national team, the Hockeyroos, in 2022 after impressing as a key member of the U21 squad.
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Became a regular starter for the Hockeyroos, playing 24 out of 25 games in 2023.
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As of 2025, she has over 33 senior international caps.
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Was a reserve for the Australian Olympic team in 2024.
Achievements and Recognition
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Awarded a Tier 3 Scholarship from the Sport Australia Hall of Fame in 2021.
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Named Rising Star by Hockey South Australia after her performances in the Premier League.
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Holds a scholarship at the South Australian Sports Institute.
Playing Profile
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Position: Defender
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Strengths: Consistent tackling, strong positional play, calm under pressure, and leadership qualities.
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Known for being a “rock at the back” and a reliable presence in defense for both club and country.
Notable Facts
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Balances her elite sporting career with university studies and coaching.
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Remains connected to her rural roots, helping on the family farm when not competing or studying.
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Recognized for her commitment to both hockey and her academic pursuits.
FAQs About Hariett Shand
What position does Hariett Shand play?
Defender
Where is she from?
Naracoorte, South Australia
How old is Hariett Shand?
25 (born January 11, 2000; as of July 2025)
What are her major achievements?
Regular Hockeyroos starter, over 33 senior international caps, Sport Australia Hall of Fame scholarship recipient, Premier League winner, Olympic team reserve (2024)
What is her playing style?
Composed, technically skilled defender with strong tackling and leadership
Conclusion
Hariett “Hattie” Shand’s journey from rural South Australia to the Hockeyroos highlights her resilience, skill, and dedication. As a regular national team defender and a role model for young athletes, she continues to make her mark in Australian and international hockey.
