The threat of relegation from the top tier of international hockey is providing extra motivation for the men and women's Black Sticks for their tri-series against Australia and Great Britain in Christchurch this weekend.
Both have struggled so far in the pro-league and face a tough test starting on Anzac Day in a week that will be crucial in their bids to avoid relegation.
The women have just one win to their name so far, while the men are yet to register a victory in their opening four games.
"Hopefully in Christchurch we can use the home field advantage and get some points on the board," Black Sticks men's player Jared Panchia told Newshub.
Those points will be critical to their cause, with the bottom-placed teams in this season's pro-league to be relegated to the second tier of international hockey.
"It is a lot of pressure and we live for that," said Panchia. "There is the chance of relegation but I think, as athletes and competitiors, that's what it's all about."
With at least a dozen of New Zealand's top players unavailable due to European club commitments, the series of matches against Australia and Great Britain will provide a chance for a younger group to put their hand up.
"There are about five on debut for this series," said Black Sticks men's defender Charlie Morrison. "It will be a chance to play a different style of hockey and just rip into it."
Facing the Aussies on Anzac Day, it shouldn't be hard to find motivation.
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