Hockey ace Sam Mee off to Australia

Leading Shropshire hockey star Sam Mee will up sticks in 2012 – to head Down Under.

The 21-year-old from Wellington has agreed an eight-week deal with the University of New South Wales Club, who play in the second tier of Australian hockey.

Forward Mee, who plays in the men's Premier Division after signing for the Manchester club from Cannock in the summer, is delighted at the opportunity.

"It's going to be a great experience for me and there is also an opportunity for me to do some coaching," said Mee.

The player would have remained with the club for the season had he not had to return for his graduation from Liverpool John Moores University, where he has been studying sports science.

"The coach (Liam Cole) who has gone into the club knows me which is how it has come about."

Mee is currently recovering from a hamstring injury which has left him on the sidelines for three weeks.