The World-Class Goalkeeper Bids Farewell to the Field
On Tuesday, Maddie Hinch, the exceptional English goalkeeper, announced her retirement from international hockey. Hinch has had an illustrious career spanning over a decade and has been the backbone of the English and Great Britain women’s hockey teams.
Hinch made her senior international debut in 2008 and quickly established herself as a formidable presence between the goalposts. With over 150 caps to her name, she has been a vital part of the teams that brought home numerous accolades, including the 2015 European Championship gold, the 2016 Olympic gold, and the 2018 World Cup bronze.
Arguably her most memorable moment came during the 2016 Rio Olympics when she put up a legendary performance in the penalty shootout against the Netherlands, helping Great Britain secure their first-ever Olympic gold in women’s hockey. Hinch’s tenacious saves earned her the nickname “The Wall”, and her exploits in Rio made her a national hero.
Hinch’s skills were wider than her acrobatics and ability to read the game. She was known for her meticulous preparation and her attention to detail. She would study her opponents, their penalty-taking habits, and tendencies, ultimately turning that knowledge into match-winning performances.
Throughout her career, Maddie Hinch has been a true inspiration for aspiring goalkeepers and hockey players worldwide. Her dedication, hard work, and mental fortitude have not gone unnoticed, earning her numerous accolades, including the prestigious FIH Goalkeeper of the Year award in 2016 and 2018.
Unfortunately the 15 year commitment to full time International hockey, physically, mentally and emotionally, has taken its toll, the tank is empty. I have always believed that to be the best and to succeed you have to be “all-in”. As difficult as this is for me to write, I know I Can no longer continue to give 100% of me to the number 1 shirt and so I have decided to retire.
Maddie Hinch – Retirement post
While Hinch’s retirement marks the end of an era for international women’s hockey, her impact on the sport will be long-lasting. She has inspired countless young players, and her departure from the international stage will undoubtedly leave a void in the hockey world.
As we bid farewell to Maddie Hinch, her legacy as one of the greatest goalkeepers in the history of women’s hockey remains firmly entrenched. Her contributions to the sport, her incredible saves, and her unwavering commitment to excellence will be remembered and celebrated for generations to come.
