By Hockey NZBlack Sticks Womens veteran leader Kayla Whitelock has confirmed plans to retire from international hockey. Whitelock took some time away from hockey following the Glasgow Commonwealth Games, in a break which saw the birth of her first daughter Addison with husband George. Black Sticks Womens coach Mark Hager said Whitelock would be difficult to replace in every way. A superb hockey player but also a true sportswoman, mentor to many and a great friend to all who crossed her path. "Personally I cannot thank Kayla enough for how she welcomed me into the Black Sticks whanau eight years ago.

Source: New Zealand Herald October 13, 2016 07:07 UTC