Not a stranger to representative hockey, Edwards will play as part of the Aussie Masters team in Fiji next week before heading to New Zealand.

Originally from Moss Vale, Edwards played at the state championships with the Southern Highlanders last year and was selected for the NSW team.

After advancing to the national championships, he was chosen for the 2019 Australian over 70s team.

Edwards said Fiji will provide the Australia team a chance to practice before the three-test series in New Zealand.

"We'll play the Fijian masters team to encourage them to remain active in the sport. The Australian team has players from different states who are all self funded, so we haven't been able to train as a team," he said.

The local believed Australia should "do reasonably well" in New Zealand. Like many, Edwards played his first game of hockey at school but described himself as "average".

After taking up coaching New South Wales and Australian Country hockey teams, his skills and abilities began to improve.

Edwards started playing Masters Hockey at the age of 43 and has been selected in various representative age divisions ever since.

As a mid-fielder or defender he plays locally, has three weight training sessions and three runs per week as training.

"I've been to New Zealand a few times, Hong Kong, South Africa... When I was playing with the Southern Highlanders team we won the state championships in the over 65 A-division.

"I've also captained state sides on a number of occasions for the national titles," he said.

Looking for a big change in his life, Edwards moved to Inverell permanently around two years ago.