I started in hockey when I was 11 years old, as a very average right forward, quickly discovering that no other field position was any better but that goalkeeper was my true destiny! A fantastic time in my youth, with great friends saw me get 77 junior international appearances before a senior debut (indoor) late in 1992. I was very fortunate as a to take advantage of an injury to the number 1 keeper in 1994 and play at the World Cup in Sydney, Australia and make the world team selection. That was the start of the journey. 12 years later I have been able to compete for Great Britain at 3 Olympic Games – Atlanta, Sydney and Athens. Whilst we didnʼt get any medals, the discipline and desire to compete at the very highest level is something that will never leave me.

The material things were fantastic, the sheer volume of kit – tee-shirts, shoes, suits, bags, sunglasses! All specifically designed, made you feel very special, as did standing shoulder to shoulder with teammates and friends, listening to your national anthem before competing. The warrior-like battles on the field against the worldʼs best teams were epic, moments of joy and moments of sorrow, learning to win, but also how to cope with loss. All such valuable skills to take forward into later life (but you donʼt know that at the time).

I have specific and vivid memories of hockey moments through those three games. Also painful memories of the training, the sacrifices to get to the very highest level. To watch other athletes in other sports also trying to be the very, very best. But for me, the greatest memory is not what you can see in your mind, but what you feel in your heart. A shared passion, a mutual goal, a respect between friends and colleagues to become an Olympian.

Something that I did three times and will treasure forever.