Black Sticks captain Dean Couzins has officially announced his retirement after playing a massive 318 test caps for New Zealand – the second most capped men’s hockey player in New Zealand’s history.
Although Couzins had suggested that perhaps the Commonwealth Games would be his last tournament, he only officially announced it to the team following their bronze-medal game against England at the Glasgow Commonwealth Games.
The 33-year old defender from Auckland has been the rock of the Black Sticks defence for 13 years and coach Colin Batch says his experience and leadership will be well missed by the team. Couzins is known for his intelligent, skilful play and determination when it comes to leading his side both on and off the field.
As the build-up to the Rio Olympics continues and with the qualification tournament only nine months away, Couzins felt he couldn’t commit to another Olympic cycle and it was a good time now to stand down and let others take over.
Couzins has played in three Olympic Games and four Commonwealth Games and thanks his family, friends and all the people that have supported him during his outstanding career.
