The Vantage Black Sticks Women have concluded a competitive tour of the United States, held from 3–11 July in Charlotte, North Carolina, as part of their preparation for the upcoming Oceania Cup and 2026 World Cup qualification series.
Over the course of the tour, the team played five matches (three practice games and two official test matches) all hosted at the University of North Carolina, Charlotte. While results didn’t fall in New Zealand’s favour, the tour provided valuable insight and development opportunities as the squad continues to build toward their key international fixtures in August.
Match Results:
· Test Match 1: USA 3–0 NZ
· Test Match 2: USA 3–0 NZ
Although USA secured a clean sweep across all matches, New Zealand showed promising moments throughout the tour. The Vantage Black Sticks Women consistently dominated several key areas, including circle entries, penalty corners, and overall scoring opportunities. A clear sign that the game plan is creating chances. However, converting those opportunities into goals proved to be the difference, with the USA demonstrating greater execution under pressure.
Head Coach and staff identified this tour as a critical learning phase. The team has taken confidence from the structures and tactics that are generating high-volume attacking play, while recognising that execution, technical precision, and composure in key moments will be focal points over the coming training block.
The primary objective of the tour was to prepare for the 2025 Oceania Cup in Darwin, a three-match series against Australia that serves as the qualification pathway for the 2026 FIH Hockey World Cup. The USA tour provided valuable match minutes, exposure to a high level of opposition, and the opportunity to refine team strategies in intense heat, with temperatures in Charlotte regularly reaching 34–36°C closely mirroring the conditions expected in Darwin.
There were also special moments to celebrate on tour. Rising talent Nina Murphy made her debut in the black jersey, while experienced midfielder Tessa Jopp marked a personal milestone by reaching her 50th international cap.
With six weeks remaining before game one of the Oceania Cup, the Vantage Black Sticks Women return home with clarity, motivation, and a sharp focus on areas to refine ahead of their next major challenge.
New Zealand
