One of the greatest ever Black Sticks, Olivia Merry, has called time on her international career.
In a career spanning nearly 12 years after debuting in 2012 against India, Merry earned 284 international caps and scored 128 goals, the second and first all-time respectively for New Zealand women.
Merry also retires as the fifth all-time leading goal scorer in women's hockey. Her retirement comes three months after the Black Sticks women failed to qualify for the Paris Olympics.
Merry represented New Zealand at two Olympic Games, Rio and Tokyo, and was part of the 2018 Commonwealth Games gold medal-winning side and 2014 bronze medal-winning side.
She also co-captained New Zealand at the 2022 Commonwealth Games and 2022 World Cup where she helped secure a fifth-placed finish equaling the Black Sticks best ever result at a World Cup.
Reflecting on her career Merry summarises it as a journey of dedication, passion, and perseverance.
"From the early days of training with some of my idols, to competing at the Olympic and Commonwealth Games, I've poured my heart and soul into the black shirt," she said.
"As with any journey, there are always challenges and setbacks, but also amazing wins and highs, which I believe has moulded me into the person I am today.
"I'm grateful for the support of my coaches, teammates, family, and fans who have been with me in this journey. A particular thank you to my personal sponsors who have supported me throughout my entire career."
Black Sticks co-captain Megan Hull praised Merry for what she had ac, saying, "to sum up Olivia in such few sentences is like trying to mark her in the five-yard zone...impossible.
"She is the epitome of what it means to be a Black Stick, and anyone who has had the privilege of playing with her, against her, or meeting her is better for it. She has given everything to the shirt and inspired us all to be better everyday.
"All sports need great players and humans like Olivia and it's been such an honour to share the turf with an absolute legend of our game. I know her family and friends could not be prouder and on behalf of the team I wish her all the very best for the exciting chapter that lies ahead."
Looking to the future, Merry is excited about spending more time with her friends and family, giving back to her work, and hopefully reducing her golf handicap.
"I think for me it is all about enjoying life and taking things one day at a time.
"As I retire, I will always carry with me the memories and lifelong friendships made. I am proud of the legacy I leave behind in the world of hockey - all I hope is that I left the black shirt in a better place."
