Olympic champion Nicola White has stepped away from international hockey with a legacy of being a 'true team player.'
The Oldham-born star won gold at Rio 2016 and bronze at London 2012, making her part of an elite group of players to have won two Olympic hockey medals for Team GB.
That group includes Kate and Helen Richardson-Walsh, Sean Kerly, Alex Danson, Ian Taylor and Crista Cullen.
Danny Kerry, who led Team GB at both Games, said: "I thoroughly enjoyed Nic’s company during our time working together and my overriding memories are her skill on the ball, her game intellect in leading and positioning, as well as the laughter she brought to the group.
“The goal she scored in London 2012 against Korea will always be a strong memory for me, having wriggled past a number of defenders to set up her own opportunity.
“I wish Nic all the very best for whatever her future may hold and I sincerely hope our paths will cross again in the future.”
The 33-year-old made her international bow in 2009 and a glittering career saw her win 186 caps and 13 major international medals.
White was part of the England team that won European gold in 2015 and stood on the Commonwealth Games podium in 2010 and 2014.
Off the pitch she has been a role model, inspiring people to pick up a stick, particularly in her home town of Oldham.
GB Hockey Performance Director Ed Barney said: “I would like to place on record our huge congratulations and gratitude for everything Nicola has contributed to the sport.
"Her record on the pitch, the number of medals and her relationship with teammates and staff members speak for themselves. A true team player, she deserves huge adulation for everything that she has contributed to hockey.
“Nicola’s off-pitch work with appearances, coaching and genuine commitment to inspiring the next generation are an example to all. Nicola can be immensely proud of all she has achieved, and also the legacy she leaves behind. We wish her all the best in all of her future ventures.”
Sportsbeat 2021