Ex-scholar Carson heads to World Cup

Since making his international debut in 2013, the Reading forward has become a regular feature in the England squad having already competed in World League final and Eurohockey Championships.

Competing in his first World Cup, Carson will look to build on an impressive 14 goals from his 39 caps as England join a challenging group that includes Spain, India and Malaysia, alongside old rivals Belgium and world #1s Australia.

The top two sides from the group will go through to the knock-out semi-finals of the competition, where they will compete for the title of World Champions.

Speaking to Sky Sports Carson said: “We are so tight in the group stage and we’ve got a great chance but it is going to be tough.”

Their first fixture, taking place on 31 May will see him break new ground, as the side face Spain for the first time since 2012.

Despite the challenge of facing the side for the first time, Carson is positive of a good result.

He added: “Personally I haven’t played against them [Spain] in a proper test match before, but all the guys will have a lot of experience, the coach knows about them, we’ll have a plan to set up against them and we are confident that we can take it too them and compete and beat them.”

During his time at University Tom was frequently the Hockey Club’s top goal scorer and formed part of the British Universities and Colleges Sport (BUCS) National Championship winning side.

As a sports scholar he received dedicated funding, training and mentoring to support his hockey career alongside his academic studies.

 Assistant Director of Sport (Performance and Competitions) and first team hockey coach, Nick Beasant commented: “We are delighted to see Tom’s international career continue to sky rocket, and this is a brilliant opportunity to compete in one of Hockey’s major international tournaments.

“Outside of the Olympics, all players want to play in a World Cup, and the Dutch will ensure it will be a magnificently staged event.

“Tom has always been a strong, skilful and confident force up-front, and his keen-eye for goal will hopefully continue to be an asset to the England side throughout the competition.”