The 18-year-old, who joined the Nelson Bay Hockey Club at the tender age of four, was last week chosen in a 40-man NSW under 21 squad, which will later this year be whittled down to just two teams.

The trial selection came out of the blue for the humble quiet achiever who is in his first year as an auto electrician with Auto Works at Raymond Terrace.

"I wasn't expecting to be named in the squad, it was quite a shock but I was pretty stoked when I received the news," Fletcher said.

"I enjoy playing hockey for fun with my friends and I have never seriously thought about playing at a higher [representative] level.

"But now that I have been this opportunity I guess I will work harder at training and look to step up. I guess this means more training days and gym work."

A midfielder or defender, Fletcher is blessed with a strong, athletic build in addition to a burst of speed that is so integral to succeed in sport.

"I guess [having these attributes] is due to those years playing hockey in the backyard at home with my three brothers and mum and dad," he said.

Fletcher said he has also been fortunate to have grown up with a group of firm friends with initially the Nelson Bay Hornets juniors and in more recent years, the Port Stephens open team.

"Last season I decided to step up in grade to play premier league with the University club in Newcastle, which is more competitive and has certainly helped develop my game."

Fletcher says that he is most grateful to the many coaches who have guided his progress over the years, and he paid special tribute to mentor Paul Baxter (a former Tomaree High teacher now principal at Irrawang High), and Ben Brown from the Hunter Academy of Sport.

"They have helped me with my game and to be the best player that I can be. I also want to mention my mum [Jo] who would drive me everywhere for games and training prior to me getting my licence," he said.

As for future ambitions in hockey, Fletcher is rather philosophical.

"I've never really thought about it," he said. "I guess I will see how I go over the next few months with the training squad. It would be a thrill playing for the Kookaburras one day and possibly in a world cup, or at the Olympics or Commonwealth games."

For anyone interested, this Saturday the Hornets will conduct a coaching session for all junior and senior players.

The Hornets hockey club play in Newcastle with teams from Div 2 to Div 6, with a few players competing in the premier league. A goalie coaching session will also take place from 10.30am.