The sides mixed it with the world’s best in a number of top-quality matches to produce top-five finishes all round.  

Border Masters team manager Maxine Eyles admitted the tournament was right up there with most challenging competitions she has been involved in. 

“There was 12 teams in our division and there was a minimum of eight to 12 teams in all divisions,” Eyles said.

“Some days we’d have to be out to play hockey at eight o’clock in the morning and then we’d be playing at seven o’clock at night.

“We played against teams from New Zealand, South Africa, Japan and the Netherlands, just to name a few.

“A couple of our goalkeepers were from New Zealand, so it was really nice to have some local talent in with us.

“It was the first Masters experience for some players and they had an enjoyable time and will be around for future games.

“The whole tournament was really good, everyone chipped in and there was great hockey played.”

The Border Masters also weren’t afraid to put their bodies on the line, with a handful of players coming off second best. 

“We had a broken hand, a strained back and someone hurt their knee,” Eyles said.

When they weren’t busy playing hockey, Eyles said the team made the most of their time away from the pitch. 

“We had a team function night and got to meet and greet everyone,” she said.

“We played some barefoot bowls and had a bit of time away from hockey.

“We also did the Anzac Day dawn service over there, which was amazing and an experience in itself doing that.

“On our rest days, we got to do some sightseeing and travel around to different places.

“Some of the team went to watch other sports as well, which was good.

“New friendships were made that will continue, because a lot of people didn’t know each other.”

Next on the cards is the Australian Masters Games in Tasmania in October this year.

Eyles revealed there will be at least one Border Masters team heading to the tournament, with the possibility of a second if numbers permit.

Anyone 45 years and over that is interested in playing is urged to contact Maxine Eyles through the Hockey Albury-Wodonga association.