But she keeps finding a way to be selected after being named in the New South Wales under-21 women's hockey squad.

And not only has the talented 19-year-old made the cut for the 21 and under age division, she's also in the mix for the state open women's squad.

With players such as current Olympian and Hockeyroo Greta Hayes vying for a spot in the Pride lineup, Toohey knows the competition will be fierce.

"I've learned through the age divisions how things keep getting pointier and pointier so we'll see where we get to," she said.

The move to Sydney for university commitments provided a key addition to her quest for further representative honours.

It also gave her the opportunity to rub shoulders with high-level teammates who gave her insightful feedback about her game.

"I was the rookie coming in and they trusted me which is a big part on the field. It was nerve-wracking at training, but comforting on the field," she said.

"Basically every player in the team has either played state or higher; there are a lot of Aussie juniors in the team."

The former Tacking Point Thunder attacker said she was always looking for ways to improve.

"I don't think anyone's ever the best because there are lots of ways you can keep improving," she said.

"At the moment I'm trying to learn the game. I don't always execute in the right situation, so I'm trying to broaden my game knowledge."

Port Macquarie-Hastings Hockey Association president Simon Thresher said the teenager was proof local products can progress to the highest level of any sport.

"Dedication and commitment has paid dividends for Annika," he said.

"These selections are a reflection of her effort over many years and the foundations she has received in the sport locally here in Port Macquarie."

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