The last thing the Southern Men need is for three of their most talented players to uproot and move to another team next year.
But that could be a reality if the three are successful in their planned bids.
Junior Black Sticks Hugo Inglis, Nick Ross and Blair Tarrant are eyeing up sporting scholarships with the University of Waikato next year and if successful they will be playing for Midlands.
While the scholarships are a big enticement, the year 13 pupils from Otago Boys High School are keen to link up with former Black Sticks and well-respected coaches Darren Smith and Hymie Gill in Hamilton.
Ross and Inglis seem determined to make the move but Tarrant said he was still undecided, suggesting if he knew of a similar incentive in Dunedin he would look into it.
He was torn between studying surveying at the University of Otago or pursuing his hockey career with Midlands.
"I haven't decided yet," Tarrant said.
"I'm finding it quite hard, actually."
Southern coach Dave Ross, Nick Ross' father, said while it was a great opportunity for the players, it was a shame there were not the incentives to keep them in the region.
"I've had these kids way back since they were 6 or 7 years old, and to see them leave just when they are starting to play really good hockey, well, it would be nice for Otago to reap those benefits rather than see them go and play for another province.
"We just lose so many good players. I mean, Darren Smith is a prime example. He was a home-grown player and played age groups for us but went through to Canterbury and Midlands and went on to get 200 caps for New Zealand and captain the Black Sticks."
Dave Ross said southern hockey needed to do more to protect its best players.
While it was probably too late to keep Nick Ross, Tarrant and Inglis in region, it was not too late to preserve the next generation of talent.
The Southern Men open their National Hockey League campaign tomorrow against the old enemy, Canterbury.
It is a game they are targeting for a win.
Australian import Mitch Baker is expected to make an impact on the league.
The Brisbane Blades defender will stiffen a defensive line-up which includes the hard-working Tarrant.
However, Dave Ross acknowledged he did not know much about the other Australian signing, Liam Brown.
Brown will play in a "workman-like" midfield.
Southern will build its game around its defence but scoring could be an issue.
The Southerners have a green-looking forward line which will be led by 20-year-old Matthew Young.
The build-up has been far from ideal with the Australian imports not arriving until yesterday.
Southern finished sixth last season and is aiming to break into the top four this year.
