Hockey NZ: New Zealand's most experienced defender, the highly respected Diana Weavers, has announced she will retire from international hockey at the completion of this week's Rabo Hockey Champions Trophy in Amsterdam.
Weavers, who is captaining the Black Sticks in the Netherlands, has confirmed the elite tournament will be her last.
The 31-year-old will retire from a career which spans 12 years. Her final game for the Black Sticks this Sunday will take her to 183 games, making her the second highest capped women ever, behind the recently retired Suzie Muirhead (Wellington).
During her career, Weavers has developed into an outstanding defender and a valued leader. She was appointed the Black Sticks vice-captain in 2003 and captain in June 2006.
Black Sticks Coach Ian Rutledge paid tribute to Weavers' contribution to his side.
ÔÇ£Diana's play has improved throughout her career to a level that sees her as one of the most respected defenders in the game today. Her consistency, leadership and stability have been critical to the Black Stick's success.
ÔÇ£Diana's commitment to success and excellence is second to none. She is meticulous in her preparation. Her on-field performances and training ethic have been instrumental to her own success and inspiring to those that have worked with her.ÔÇØ
Rutledge said Weavers was a strong leader and was respected for her humbleness and compassion. She would be sorely missed from the team.
Weavers has retired to focus on other areas of her life.
ÔÇ£I want to spend more time with my partner Brian as well as family and friends,ÔÇØ she said.
ÔÇ£I have also just started a new career at the BNZ as a banking advisor and I'm excited about that new focus and keen to get on with my training.ÔÇØ
ÔÇ£I am so fortunate to have been able to play for New Zealand for so long, through so many different eras of players,' she said.
ÔÇ£I'm currently playing alongside someone like Charlotte Harrison who will be around for another 10 years and the team is being managed by Jenny Duck who I played with 10 years ago.ÔÇØ
Weavers debuted for New Zealand against China in Hobart in 1995. Her highlights have been playing in her first World Cup in Utrecht, Netherlands, in 1998 and playing at the 2000 2004 Olympic Games.
She has played at three Commonwealth Games, (98, 02, 06); two Olympic Games, (00, 04); two World Cups (98, 02); six Champions Trophy tournaments (99, 00, 01, 02, 04, 06); and one Champions Challenge tournament (03).
