Triple Olympian Nick Wilson announces retirement from Black Sticks

Manawatū Black Sticks striker Nick Wilson has announced his retirement from international hockey, marking the end of a remarkable career.

Wilson played 181 games for New Zealand and is the seventh-highest goal-scorer for the Black Sticks with 78 goals.

He represented New Zealand at three Olympic Games: London 2012, Rio 2016 and Tokyo 2020. He was also part of the New Zealand squad that won a bronze medal at the 2010 Delhi Commonwealth Games.

“My proudest moment during my career was putting on the black shirt for the very first time and representing New Zealand at the Olympics,” he said. “Those memories are something I will forever treasure.”

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Former Black Sticks coach Shane McLeod fondly remembered Wilson’s debut and his evolution as a player.

“Nick was a very special athlete. He came into the Black Sticks side at a very young age, but already showed a maturity well above his years. I was lucky enough to watch him grow as a player and a person.

“I have worked with many naturally gifted players but what was special about Nick was not only his skill set but also his constant need to improve.”

McLeod recalled one of his early experiences with Wilson.

“At the time Australia were the leading force in hockey, and we were to play them when they were in full flight. It was Nick’s first test match, and unlike every other person that I knew, he was unfazed by the thought of playing them.

“In fact, my assistant and I watched as this young striker’s first touch of the ball saw him take on and eliminate two of the best fullbacks in the world. We looked at each other at that exact same moment and said ‘that boy can play’.”

To talent and self confidence was added resilience, dedication and determination which allowed him to push through injury setbacks.

The talented striker planned to remain involved in hockey, envisioning a future in club hockey and potentially moving into coaching.

In his post-retirement plans, besides enjoying his newfound leisure time with his partner Mattea and his golden retriever Willow, Wilson planned to hit the golf course.

“I have caught the golfing bug. I plan to play as much golf as I can until I grow old.”

Wilson’s advice for budding athletes was: “Always give 100% and never give up. If you do those two things, you will always succeed in whatever you do in life.”

Wilson was grateful to those who supported him throughout his journey, including his parents, coaches, medical staff, and friends.

“As I look back at my time in the black shirt, I am proud of what I achieved as an individual and [we achieved] as a team.

“As a young kid I set out to be the best I could be, and I gave my everything to the game for over 25 years and only now I realise how much the game gave to me.”