Support Finlay's Journey to the Junior World Cup

Hi, my name is Finlay Neale, and I’ve been selected to represent New Zealand at the U21 Junior Hockey World Cup in India later this year.

Hockey has been a huge part of my life since I first picked up a stick as a kid in Christchurch. It has given me the chance to travel, compete at the highest levels, and learn what dedication, resilience, and teamwork really mean. Over the past few years I’ve represented Canterbury and recently the Under 21 New Zealand team across multiple national and international tournaments, and I’m proud to now be part of the NZ U21 Men’s Squad heading to the World Cup.

In 2023 I captained St Bedes, and in 2024 I captained the Canterbury U18 Men’s side, earning MVP honours and being named Canterbury Hockey Youth Player of the Year for the second consecutive year. Those experiences taught me how to lead, stay humble, and give back — values that guide me as I now coach younger players in my community.

Every major tournament I’ve played in — the National Hockey League, U21 Oceania Series, Junior Hockey League, the NZ U21 Malaysia Tour, and now the Junior World Cup — has been self-funded. Competing at this level involves significant costs for travel, accommodation, and preparation.

Your support will directly help me represent New Zealand with pride, continue developing as a player and leader, and give back through coaching and mentoring others.

Thank you for helping me take this next step in my journey and for being part of something that means so much to me.