Port Stephens parents Jenny and Paul Baxter need never worry about their four children spending too much time indoors playing video games or on their mobile devices.
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The siblings - Grace, aged 15, Hannah, 13, Hamish, 9, and 7-year-old Maddie - are happiest outdoors, preferably with a hockey ball in tow and brushing up on their hockey stick skills.
In fact, it is a real family affair for the Baxters, from Soldiers Point. Hannah Baxter, the latest state representative player in the family, is coach of younger sister Maddie's junior team; both Jenny and Paul [Irrawang High School principal] play in the senior ranks; Jenny coaches Grace's under 15s team, plus the second grade and premier league; and Paul is at the helm of Hamish's under 9s side plus two Port Stephens Hornets men's teams.
As the eldest of the four siblings, Grace has over the years stolen the limelight on the representative scene, but in 2019 she has been joined by sister Hannah, who has emerged as a rising new talent after earning her first rep honours by being chosen to play for the NSW U13 Girls Lions team in the National Championships from October 2-8 in Hobart, Tasmania.
"I was over the moon when I heard I had been selected. I enjoyed playing in the state championships, meeting new girls and travelling to new places," said the tearaway midfielder, who is a member of the Central West club in the strong Newcastle competition.
"I may not be the quickest player on the field but I like the physical contact. The nationals should be a big test."
Hannah's selection came after some strong performances representing Newcastle at the under 13 state carnival held in Parkes and Port Macquarie during July.
Grace, also a midfielder, continues to impress on the field having just returned from the nationals while playing with the NSW under 16 years All School Blues team.
The team was placed fifth and Grace had the honour of captaining the side for the final two matches.
"I have been playing hockey for about seven years but I did have a break. I enjoy the teamwork and camaraderie among the girls," said Grace, who has was also part of the Hunter CHS open hockey team which won the state carnival in June for the fifth consecutive year.
"Long term I feel I would like to play at the highest level but I know there's a lot of hard work and training to be done. I think every girl dreams one day of playing with the Hockeyroos."
RELATED READING: Grace Baxter named in Blues hockey squad
Grace, who was also part of the Hunter CHS under 15 side which finished runner-up at the state tournament, was forced to withdraw from the NSW touch team due to hockey commitments.
In fact, both girls who attend Tomaree High School, where Grace recently took out an Outstanding Sporting Achievement Award, excel at touch footy and regularly train together as they seek to continue to further their skill and technique levels.
