FOR THE THIRD year running, Ireland captain David Harte has been nominated for the prestigious FIH World Goalkeeper of the Year award, thus further cementing his standing as one of the game’s most prominent players.
Having won the award the last two years, Harte’s consistent performances and outstanding contributions at both club and international level have once again been recognised as he’s named on a five-man shortlist.
During another exceptional 12 months between the posts, the Cork native guided Ireland to World Cup qualification for the first time since 1990 and was also named goalkeeper of the tournament as Craig Fulton’s side lifted World League 2 on home soil.
At club level, Harte remains peerless.
His incredible list of achievements and scarcely believable medal haul was completed in February when he was part of the Kampong side which won the Dutch title for the first time in 32 years.
“I’m absolutely thrilled to be nominated,” he said.
“This is the third year in a row for me and each year the feeling just increases, knowing what a prestigious award it is. It’s been a great year, qualifying for the World Cup with Ireland and being named GK of the tournament at World League 2.
“It would mean everything to win, I dedicate my life towards goalkeeping and hockey, and it’s something I love to do.”
Among those in the running for the award are Quico Cortes of Spain, George Pinner of Great Britain, current European silver medallist with Belgium Vincent Vanasch, and Olympic gold medallist Juan Vivaldi from Argentina.
Harte is the only Irish player to be nominated in any of the five categories released by the FIH this morning, with the winner of each award determined by a public vote.
The 2017 FIH Hockey Stars Awards ceremony takes place in the New Year and you can cast your vote here, with the polls closing at midnight on 14 January.
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