Hockey: Black Sticks midfielder retires

Stacey Carr. Photo / Brett Phibbs.

New Zealand midfielder Stacey Carr has announced her retirement from international hockey.

The 27-year-old played 127 tests for the Black Sticks before taking a break from the international circuit following last year's Commonwealth Games in India where the New Zealand won a silver medal.

She now wants to focus on her career in Ashburton, will continue to play at club level and may possibly look to extend her career in the national league for Canterbury.

"I was pretty certain that I wanted to retire after the Commonwealth Games. However, I thought it was important that I took a break to make sure that I was making the right decision,'' Carr said today.

"I will really miss the international games and playing at that competitive level."

New Zealand coach Mark Hager said Carr would be missed and she would be remembered for her "tough, hardnosed approach to the game".

"She is a gritty, determined player who is skilful in the midfield and hard to get the ball past."

- NZPA