A CHESTER hockey star has been named as the world’s best goalkeeper.
James Fair, 29, of Pulford, was one of six England players whose exceptional performances throughout the year saw them selected by the International Hockey Federation (IHF) in its 2010 All Star teams.
Former Deeside Ramblers player Fair, who kept goal for England during the World Cup and the Commonwealth Games in India, said: “It is an honour to be selected and it really reflects the season that we’ve had.
“We finished fourth in both the major tournaments and achieved a second-place finish in the Champions Trophy.
“So this season will hopefully inspire us to do better when the Olympics come around in 2012.”
Fair, who has won 75 caps for England and 16 for Great Britain, added: “Looking at the list of players in the all-star teams, I don’t think that I would have too much to do in goal!”
The former Chester King’s School student, who plays for Cannock in the National League, now works as a hockey professional at the Stowe School in Buckinghamshire.
One man who remembers the start of his journey to the top is dad John, who explained: “James only ended up in goal as he had asthma. He started with soccer then moved into hockey.
“We’re all pleased as punch that both my son and a local lad has made it.”
The IHF teams, which feature a total of 36 players and four coaches who have lit up the hockey world with their achievements over the past 12 months, have been compiled using the recommendations and opinions of hockey experts from across the globe including players, officials, coaches and journalists.
