The Thunder Hockey Club player ventured overseas with his under-17s team for two weeks abroad.

They played three tough matches against the South African under-18s and lost all three, with the power and speed of the home side proving inconceivable.

Dowrick said that some doubts about his future in hockey were cast before the trip, but representing Australia reignited his passion.

“It was a real cultural experience. Their players were really fast, strong and agile and we just weren’t up to their pace,” he said.

“On the other hand, we learnt about the developing world and how hard it can be for some people living over there.

“It was a real eye opener for us, to realise how much we have and how much we can take for granted here in Australia.”

Dowrick said the team was focused on going over there and winning, but were simply overwhelmed.

“They had it over us with their age and their strength. Keeping up with their speed was the biggest hurdle,” he said.

“That’s something I’ve come away wanting to focus on and to improve in my own game.

“We were all pretty nervous and had no idea what we were coming up against, so it gave us a lot of experience.”

Dowrick revealed his ultimate goal was to go to the Olympics, before declaring his focus shift to the upcoming finals in Port Macquarie.

“I’m hoping that I can jag a spot at the Tokyo Olympics. To represent Australia at the games is my main goal now,” he said.

“Now I’m focusing on the finals in two weeks time. Hopefully we can make it to the grand final.”