Having recently wrapped up HSC exams, Ky Willott remains unsure of what move he'll make in 2020.
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However, the Floraville 18-year-old has just one thing on his mind this weekend - a national title.
And not only is the NSW Pride representative looking forward to Saturday's Hockey One final against Brisbane Blaze in Melbourne, but he's relishing the extra responsibility of drag flicking from penalty corners following an injury to regular go-to man Blake Govers.
"It feels like you're really accountable for when you score goals from short corners," Willott told the Newcastle Herald. "It gives you confidence and also feels like you're contributing a lot to the team. It's pretty cool."
It gives you confidence and also feels like you're contributing a lot to the team."
- Ky Willott
Willott, who normally lines up for Norths in the Hunter Coast Hockey Premier League, has found the back of the net four times in his last three outings for the undefeated Pride.
This included a double against upcoming opponents Brisbane in the last round a fortnight ago and featured an impressive field goal in Saturday's 6-2 semi win over Hockey Club Melbourne.
Having made a run inside the circle and while still on the move, Willott controlled a pass with one touch and despite having his back towards goal then worked the ball through the approaching keeper's legs.
"Hopefully I'm bringing some form into the final. I've been enjoying every minute of it," he said.
Willott finished his year 12 commitments at Belmont High School last week.
"You're not thinking of two things at once," he said.
"I kind of like the pressure because I think I perform better under pressure. We had a game in Perth on a Saturday, got home the Sunday night, studied for a bit and then had biology [test] the next day.
"It's been hard to fit it all in, with the training as well, but it does take the stress off with HSC over.
"So when you get to hockey now, it's just hockey you're thinking about."
Willott's clubmate and Kookaburras defender Matthew Dawson is co-captain of NSW and father Dave, also a former state representative, is the Pride's assistant coach.
The inaugural men's Hockey One final starts at 2pm.
Brisbane meet hosts HC Melbourne in the women's decider from 4pm.
