Speedway: Sutherland sets sights on 2014

The Edinburgh-based hockey star’s target is to help Kelburne claim a ninth straight domestic title and a place in Scotland’s Commonwealth Games side for 2014.

The former CALA Edinburgh player has just spent a year Down Under, believes the experience has improved his game and he claims his petulant days are behind him.

Sutherland, a sales executive for sports goods firm Dita, is now gearing up for Saturday’s derby with Kelburne’s arch rivals Western at Auchenhowie, and he can’t wait.

The Scottish indoor international is a son of celebrated hockey export, Chris Sutherland, one of Scotland’s best ever players, who appeared more than 160 times for Scotland and Great Britain, and on 11 occasions for Europe, both indoors and outdoors.

Scott said: “I learned a lot in Melbourne. We videoed games, had one-to-ones with the coaches, one of whom was an Olympic gold medallist, after games, and my discipline is much better. I only had three green cards in Melbourne and I’ve learned not to feud with referees. There is no point.

“I believe I’m a much better player now and I have a goal of making the Commonwealth Games team in 2014. I had over two months off when I finished in Melbourne and I may go back there in the future, but for now I aim to get fit.”

Sutherland would love to play in the Knockout 16 of the European Hockey League next Easter and Kelburne are checking if he is eligible. He added: “I was involved in the under-age Scottish group but I’m now 22 and it’s the senior team or nothing for me. I want to make it and I’ve joined Kelburne to try to bring my game on even further.”