Greensborough Hockey Club had plenty to celebrate on the international stage in 2026, with Phil Frost, Greg Purser, Kevin McLaughlin, Barry Collins and Chris O’Dempsey all representing Australia at the Masters World Cup.
For five members of the Burra community to earn national selection at the same tournament is a significant achievement in itself. Their results made the occasion even more memorable, with medals and a grand-final appearance across four Australian age-group teams.
Gold for Phil Frost and the Men’s 60+ team
Phil Frost was part of Australia’s Men’s 60+ team and finished the tournament as a gold medallist. Winning a world-level masters title is a major achievement and adds another chapter to Phil’s long connection with hockey at Greensborough.
Bronze for Greg Purser and Kevin McLaughlin
Greg Purser and Kevin McLaughlin represented Australia in the Men’s 65+ competition, with the team securing a bronze medal. Sharing the international tournament experience with a fellow Burra made the achievement particularly special for the club.
Barry Collins becomes a world champion
Barry Collins and the Australian Men’s 75+ team went all the way, finishing the tournament as champions and taking home gold. It was another outstanding result for a Greensborough player competing in Australian colours.
Chris O’Dempsey reaches the grand final
Chris O’Dempsey represented Australia in the Men’s 80+ team, which progressed through the tournament to the grand final. Reaching the deciding match at a Masters World Cup is a remarkable achievement and another result the wider Burra community can celebrate.
A strong Masters tradition
These performances highlight something important about hockey at Greensborough: the opportunity to keep playing, competing and developing does not stop at senior weekend hockey. Masters hockey remains an important part of the club, giving players the chance to stay connected to the game for decades and, for some, continue all the way to national and international representation.
Congratulations to Phil, Greg, Kevin, Barry and Chris on their Australian selections and their performances on the world stage. The club is proud to see five Burras representing their country and bringing home achievements across so many age groups.