We are very proud to announce the election of local hockey legend, Robbie Matthews, as a Life Member of Hockey Wanganui, following unanimous approval at our recent AGM.

Robbie has given a huge amount to hockey in this region (and beyond), as a player, coach and administrator. Despite accruing more than 150 test caps for NZ between 1985 and 2000, Robbie always made herself available to coach and play for her local and regional teams when she was home from international duties. She represented Whanganui and Central in hundreds of competitive matches, as well as coaching representative and school hockey at U15, U18 and U21 levels. She was committed to giving back to her hockey communities, and dedicated herself to the belief that smaller regions like ours could still provide opportunities at the highest levels of the sport.

In 2018, Robbie took on the Operations Manager role here at Hockey Wanganui and was instrumental in securing the funding which led to the resurfacing of our turf here at The MacDonalds Hockey Stadium in Gonville.

We are honoured to recognise Robbie's many and varied contributions to hockey in this region by enrolling her as a Life Member of Hockey Wanganui. Thank you and congratulations, Robbie!

Article added: Sunday 16 March 2025