Drag-flicking ace Joel Rintala has defied injury to sneak into the Kookaburra's full-time squad. New coach Mark Hager finalised his 24-man squad on Tuesday, with Queenslander Rintala among seven to make the final cut. A potent goalscorer in general play and penalty corners, injuries kept Rintala out of Paris Olympics contention and sidelined him for the first two Pro League legs. But the Townsville product showed enough in recent training and match simulation to earn a full-time contract with the Perth-based squad. He scored a hat-trick inside 21 minutes in just his second Test in 2023 and will be a key additional piece for the Kookaburras' Pro League tour of Europe in July. "Joel had a chance to impress when we played some unsanctioned matches in Perth," Hager said. "He showed glimpses of his true talent, and he brings the specialty of the drag flick as well, with a great goal-scoring sense. "He's fantastic around the group, and he's on track to be back fully training in a couple of weeks, which should give him a great build-up ahead of Europe selection in May." NSW's Ash Thomas beat Mitch Nicholson for the one remaining goalkeeper position behind No.1 Jed Snowden, although the Queenslander will still be part of the squad on a tier one contract. West Australian trio Tom Harvie, James Collins and Cambell Geddes won contracts while NSW talent Nathan Czinner and Tasmanian striker Jack Welch have been included. The Kookaburras continue their Pro League title defence in June against India, Ireland, England and Germany.