BAYSWATER Lacrosse Club star Thomas Graham is aiming to help Australia notch a podium spot at the 2018 Federation of International Lacrosse Men’s World Championship, after coming fourth in 2014.
The Highgate resident, formerly of Bayswater, will be competing at his second world championships, to be held in Netanya, Israel from July 12 to 21.
Graham (25), who won the O.C Isaachsen Trophy for Best Male Player in Australia for 2013 and 2016, will be joined by Bayswater coach and life-member Glenn Morley, who will serve as the team’s assistant coach.
Get in front of tomorrow's news for FREE
Journalism for the curious Australian across politics, business, culture and opinion.
READ NOWHe has been playing the sport for about 16 years.
Graham said he was honoured to represent Australia again.
“I think coming fourth last time was maybe a little bit of a disappointment, we were trying to get medals,” he said.
“We will be aiming for that this time, hopefully crack the top three and get on the podium.
“The preparation has been good, (I have) been putting lots of work in and throwing the ball against the wall.”
The Pro Build construction worker said it was difficult to balance his work on the Ritz Carlton development at Elizabeth Quay and lacrosse training.
With Bayswater sitting in third spot on the State League ladder, Graham will focus on helping his team improve on their 2017 runner-up finish once he returns from Israel.
“Generally, they go all right when I am not there, so I am sure the boys back home would do a good job,” he said.
“Hopefully we can shore up our team by the end of the season and give a good push for the finals.”
He said he was motivated to continue playing lacrosse, as he loved spending time with his friends and club members.