It was easy to spot Ludo Anderson when the national inline hockey qualifying series rolled into Nelson.
He was the player in the Nelson Whalers top keeping goal for the New Plymouth Ravens.
The side needed a goalie, so the 17-year-old stepped in, a testament to his love of the fast-paced game.
“I wasn’t supposed to be playing that weekend,” says Ludo, whose form and dedication has been rewarded with selection in the New Zealand junior squad for the World Skate Games in Paraguay in October.
“It was a bit of a surprise. I didn’t see it coming as it is a North Island-dominated sport.”
Ludo’s mother Michelle started up roller derby in Nelson, but it was hockey on skates that appealed to him and he’s been playing for 10 years.
“It keeps you on your toes and is the closest thing to ice hockey.”
Initially he played in the field, but after breaking a leg playing rugby at Nelson College, he came back as a goalkeeper and is loving the switch.
“As a player you need more stamina than a goalie where movement is the most important thing,” declares the Year 12 student.
Given his Nelson base, movement has always been key to his progression in the sport, too.
“I travel to the North Island a lot for competition and training. I have two camps in Hamilton before the worlds. I have thought of moving to Auckland,” confirms Ludo during a break between matches at the Tāhunanui skating rink.
Working at Fresh Choice after school has helped fund his travel and goalkeeping kit upgrades this season.
He wears plenty of padding but says too much can affect your movement in goal.
So, neck injuries, fortunately not too serious, go with his chosen role.
Ludo knows he is in for testing time in Paraguay.
“The last time a New Zealand junior team went to the worlds we got beaten 30-0 by Canada, but depending on our pool I think we have a chance,” concludes Ludo, who will move up to the senior ranks next year.
