The Wales players partly fund the programme themselves.
“It brings us closer together because we know what we’ve had to sacrifice,” added Hawker.
“If you ask any of the group why they part with a sum of money to commit, whether or not they’re selected to have major tournament experience, they love being part of the group.
“The experience is unrivalled. That’s why we contribute. It adds a certain degree of strength, resilience and togetherness.”
But just getting the squad to India has been a huge financial challenge for Hockey Wales.
They were even forced to started a crowdfunding campaign to make up the shortfall in funds.
Chief executive Ria Burrage-Male hopes seeing Wales on the world stage will be a catalyst for crucial changes.
“Public funding only stretches so far, so as a result the players will contribute around 50% towards the player programme,” she told BBC Sport Wales.
“That’s a problem – that’s not sustainable.
“If you don’t have money you might not be able to play the sport. That is hugely problematic and it’s something we have to address.
“I fundamentally believe people shouldn’t have to pay to play for their country. It’s an absolute honour and we shouldn’t be in a position where the sport is not sustainable because of the cost to play.
“We have to be more visible, we have to raise our profile. I hope we just inspire a generation of people to pick up a stick and keep our sport alive.”
Wales face England, Spain and hosts India in Pool D. They are all ranked in the world’s top eight.
Trying to go beyond the group stage will be Wales’ toughest challenge yet – but it is one they are up for.
“Just being there is a huge achievement,” said Rupert Shipperley.
“Tokyo was absolutely huge but a World Cup with Wales, with this group of players we’ve had for the last seven to eight years, is something really special.
“We want to cause upsets. We’ll be throwing punches. It’s putting Hockey Wales on the world scale and letting them know we’re here to stay.”
