AFTER experiencing the heartbreak of a shootout defeat in June's FIH Pro League final, Gerringong's Grace Stewart is determined to ensure the Hockeyroos don't experience similar pain in the future.
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The 22-year-old was forced to look on as the Netherlands claimed the inaugural Pro League title, ending a promising run to the final for the Australian side - which also featured Mollymook's Kalindi Commerford.
Despite the disappointment, the second-place finish marked a resounding success for the Hockeyroos just a year out from the Tokyo Olympics.
For Stewart, coming so close to the gold has made the team even hungrier for success in 2020.
"In the semi-final we won in a shootout, which was so exciting, so to be on the opposite end was heartbreaking," Stewart said.
"The hardest thing is knowing how close you were. One more save or goal and that could've been us, that hurts.
"Overall, it was a really good trip for us as a team, coming second and drawing with the Dutch in the final, it puts us in a good place leading into the Olympics.
"Our confidence is building and we know we can match it with them."
After such a gruelling start to 2019, Stewart has returned home to freshen up and recharge. She's doing that the only way she knows how, by getting straight back on to the hockey pitch.
The attacking forward scored a goal for Gerringong in their 2-1 victory over Fairy Meadow last week and she's preparing to turn out in Friday's clash with Albion Park.
Having experienced a rivalry that dates back to her teenage years, Stewart is hopeful she can knock off the competition leaders.
"It was good to be back out there for Gerringong," she said.
"My sisters play in the team, my cousin, they're a young group so it's great to play with them and have no pressure.
"Even when I used to play, we could never beat Albion Park.
"The girls this year are doing really well, hopefully with myself back in the team we might be able to give it a good shot this week."
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Stewart's return to the Illawarra is a short one, with the striker set to return to Perth next week as Australia begin their preparations for September's Oceania Cup, the first chance for the side to secure Olympic qualification.
With just one automatic qualification spot on the line, the Hockeyroos know it's imperative they are at their best at the competition in Rockhamption.
Having experienced a patchy season in the green and gold, Stewart is looking forward to returning to her best form and help lead Australia in their bid to punch their ticket to Tokyo.
"Throughout the year I've been a bit patchy," Stewart said.
"Some games I'm happy with, some I'd like to do more in.
"The more training and game time I have, the more consistent I'm becoming. I'm training hard to stay in the team, playing more hockey is the key.
"The Oceania Cup is very important, going up against New Zealand is always tough.
"If we can cement our spot that way rather than the longer process, it's a lot more ideal and makes our year a lot easier."
