Free State and SA midfielder Lesle-Ann George is South Africa's Women's Hockey Player of the Year.
George, who has just turned 25, also won the award in 2006 and returned to the international arena this year after a 12-month break following the Beijing Olympics.
'The award means so much more to me than in 2006, when I was very young,' said George, who made her SA debut against Scotland five years ago. 'It came as such a surprise as I only resumed my international career this year and so many of my SA team-mates had such good seasons that I never expected anything of this nature.'
It is a double celebration for the student, who has also been named the University of Free State Sportswoman of the Year and led the provincial team back into the top echelons of SA hockey.
Exceptionally light on her feet and blessed with quick hands, George's high work-rate and the experience earned in 105 Test matches means she is constantly in the midst of world number 12 South Africa's tussle for possession against higher-ranked opponents.
'My 2010 highlight was being part of an exciting new SA team and coming so close to a medal at the Commonwealth Games last month. The fact that we are so confident against the top countries can be attributed to our new coach, Giles Bonnet, who has such faith in us and made us believe we're capable of playing great hockey and beating the best.'
After what is expected to be a hectic three-month schedule of home Test series against the world's top hockey nations, beginning with 2010 World Cup champions Argentina next month, George will be heading for Belgian club Gantoise and an intense season in Europe.
'My goal in 2011 is to do well in South Africa's international matches, keep improving and remain in the team. What the future holds for SA hockey is so exciting and I feel privileged to be a part of it.'
