Elke Holze, 16, and Madeleine Jordan, 17, were selected for the team after three trials which were held over December and January.

Their next big step is playing in the national under 18 women’s championship in Port Lincoln against highly competitive teams from around the country.

The best friends from St Marks College say it will be a challenge.

“We are trying to get to the top,” Elke said, adding a new system has been implemented for the team this year.

However, they will have each other’s company as the grueling training kicks in; Elke says the girls can see the positive side.

“It’s exciting. We can train together,”

It will take all their time and dedication as they head to Adelaide every weekend for to prepare for the big event with the other girls.

Because they are based in Port Pirie, Elke and Madeleine will miss out on the Monday and Wednesday sessions, but they say the Wednesday nights could become a possible in the near future. The girls will continue training in the town.

The distance also will not hinder the relationships with their team mates with Madeleine explaining that they are already acquainted.

“We know each other. I’ve been already been away with most of them.”

While the excitement of making the state team is on the girls’ minds, they have both started year 12, which means time management will be an important part of the next few months.

“We will have to fit in school, work and hockey as well,” Madeleine said.

The two friends have lived and breathed hockey. Both have played since reception and they have played for the state since they were eligible for under 12 team.

As for life after year 12, the girls would like to consider hockey as a career but admit it’s tough and it means moving to Adelaide.

For now, they would both be happy to even coach the teams here in Port Pirie.

The under 18 women’s hockey championships will be held in April.