ANITA McLaren (nee Punt) retires from International Hockey.

ANITA McLaren (nee Punt) retires from International Hockey.

With a touch of sadness we acknowledge Anita McLaren’s (nee Punt) retirement from International Hockey, but looking back, what an amazing career!
Anita began her playing days at Waimea College, moving on to the (then) Richmond Ladies Hockey Club. She played representative hockey for Nelson before being selected for the Capital regional team and eventually for the Blacksticks. She was honoured with the captaincy for a period and went on to record over 270 games for New Zealand, also achieving accolades as the Blacksticks Women’s leading goal scorer at 105.
Anita has been an icon for our sport (and sport in general) both nationally and internationally. A true athlete of outstanding ability and grit, she nevertheless remains a hometown girl at heart, being a passionate Nelsonian and inspiring our younger players to greater sporting heights.
Anita has asked us to pass on her gratitude and thanks to the Nelson hockey community and in particular those who have supported her over many many years and helped her achieve her dreams – and then some!
Congratulations on your brilliant career, Anita, we’re proud of you and send our best wishes from the Hockey Nelson staff, board and community for the next exciting chapters in your life.
Nelson Hockey Association.