One of New Zealand greatest players, Simon Child has officially announced his retirement, after an almost 20-year international hockey career.
Child first stepped onto the international stage in 2005, going on to represent New Zealand in 309 matches.
Renowned globally for his goal-scoring prowess, Child’s 148 goals place him as the second-highest scorer in the history of New Zealand men’s hockey.
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Kevin Towns, who first selected Child for the Black Sticks in 2005, identified his exceptional talent early on, tracking his progress from junior levels to secondary schools. Towns named Child for his first international series as a 16-year-ol during a home test against Malaysia in Auckland.
“It was clear from a very early age that there was something special about Simon, a natural athlete with a different but extremely effective skill set, he had game smarts and loved to win. It was a privilege for me to have him in the Black Sticks group.
To see him grow into his role as a fully-fledged international and a threat to teams across the world of Hockey. I wish him all the best as he moves on from international Hockey”.
Child, 36 is a veteran of four Olympic Games and three Commonwealth Games. He was a pivotal part of the squad that clinched a bronze medal at the 2010 Commonwealth Games in Delhi.
Hockey New Zealand CEO Anthony Crummy praised his remarkable career and contributions to the sport.
"Simon has had a remarkable career and his service to hockey over the last two decades has been extraordinary. A world-class player with incredible skill and game sense, Simon retires as one of our greatest ever Black Sticks.
Reflecting on his years with the Black Sticks, Child felt said it was a major part of his life.
“Representing NZ has been my greatest achievement and I’m incredibly grateful for the 20 year journey I had with the Black Sticks. I played my very first game at 16 years old, in front of family and friends and never imagined that I would go on and play a total of 309 games, Captain the team and compete at four Olympic Games.
There are a lot people I will thank in person but a BIG thanks to the all my coaches, teammates and umpires. My life-long sponsors Gryphon and Asics who have been by my side since the start.
I owe everything to my parents, whose sacrifice, encouragement and commitment shaped my career. Finally, special thanks to my wife Kush, for your motivation, love and support. I couldn’t have done any of it without you.”
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