Olympian, ex-Blackstick, and past Te Awamutu player, Robbie Matthews is making a return to the turf in 2022 for the blue, green and gold. 

The club is thrilled to announce Robbie's return, both as a player and mentor to our coaches, bringing a wealth of experience and knowledge that will resonate with everyone, both on and off the field. 

Matthews was a Blackstick for an impressive 15 years from 1985-2000. Her highlights during this time are just as impressive, citing the 1992 Barcelona Olympics; achieving a Commonweath Bronze at Kuala Lumpur in 1998; being selected for the World XI Team in 1999; becoming New Zealand's first female player to reach 150 caps; and being named NZ Player of the year in 1991.

Playing her teenage hockey out of Piopio, Robbie first played for Waikato Women aged 15, and went on to represent Waikato, Auckland, Wanganui, Central and Midlands. She was still playing Premier hockey in Manawatu this season where she worked as Operations Manager for Hockey Wanganui, helping grow the sport in the region. Recently she has returned to reconnect with past employer Sport Waikato as a Regional Connectivity Coordinator in the Waikato West area. It was during her earlier times with Sport Waikato from 2000-2014, that Robbie spent many of her hockey weekends wearing our Te Awamutu club colours.

Coaching many school, club and representative teams over the years, she says, "I find it’s a rewarding way to play alongside others and support them (players) in their growth on the field. I am very passionate about the game and giving back to the sport" and adds she is very excited about being back in the Waikato, and looks forward to being involved with Te Awamutu Sports Hockey club again.

We are too, Robbie!

Article added: Friday 05 November 2021