Scotland captain Leigh Fawcett announces international hockey retirement

Scotland captain Leigh Fawcett has announced her retirement from international hockey.

The 29 year-old made her international debut in 2009 and won 132 caps for the national side, including 18 as captain.

She led Scotland to retaining its place at the EuroHockey Nations Championship last summer with a 6th place finish in London and also competed in two Commonwealth Games (2010, 2014) for Team Scotland.

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(Captain Leigh Fawcett led Scotland to retaining their European Championship status last summer. Photo Credit: Ady Kerry)

Following her decision to step down from international commitments, Fawcett said, “Retiring from international hockey was a difficult decision to make but I feel now is the right time for me personally and also for the squad moving forward.

“We have a lot of exciting new talent coming through the age groups and this next year will be important for the development of the squad looking to compete in 2017.

“I have been fortunate and proud to represent Scotland and to travel the world competing with not only team mates, but with many of my closest friends. Not many people get these opportunities and I am so grateful to everyone who has supported me along the way.”

“It was an honour to captain Scotland for the 2015 programme leading up to the Europeans in London. Without a doubt it was one of my most enjoyable summers and it was great to retain our ‘A’ division status.

“I would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone involved with Scottish Hockey and I look forward to supporting the team in the future.”

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(Leigh Fawcett in action at the Glasgow 2014 Commonwealth Games. Photo Credit: Ian Steele)

Scotland Senior Women Head Coach Gordon Shepherd added, “The first thing I should really say is that she will be missed. She was great to work with and it was great to see how dedicated she was to become a better player every year. She is most certainly stopping while at her best.

“In her last year she was captain of the team and was a fantastic captain both on and off the field.

“Finding the right words is never easy but I would like to thank her for all her time, commitment and effort over the years and wish her all the best with whatever she decides to do in the future.”

The Grove Menzieshill star will continue to compete domestically in the Women’s National League, with the club in contention for both league and cup honours in 2016

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