Irish hockey star Nikki Evans (McDonnell) has announced her retirement this morning, bringing a close to her glittering career after 13 years at the top level.
Having made her international debut in 2010, she accumulated over 200 caps for the Girls In Green and most notably played a major role in Ireland’s silver medal run at the 2018 Hockey World Cup.
Thank you ❤️ (1/2) pic.twitter.com/R8ryBOCCUG
— Nikki McDonnell (@nikkilevans) September 29, 2023
She began her journey with Alexandra College Dublin and went on to play 17 seasons at national league level from Railway Union, to UCD, to Hermes-Monkstown, and even did a two year stint in the German Bundesliga with UHC Hamburg.
It was at 33 with Old Alex HC the midfielder finally called time on her hockey exploits, taking to social media to reveal the news that she was hanging up her stick.
3 November 2019; Ireland players, from left, Elena Tice, Zoe Wilson, Nikki Evans, Chloe Watkins and Gillian Pinder celebrate after qualifying for the Tokyo2020 Olympic Games after the FIH Women's Olympic Qualifier match between Ireland and Canada at Energia Park in Dublin. Photo by Brendan Moran/Sportsfile
Nikki Evans’ retirement announcement
“It has been some journey” Nikki Evans says, in a statement accompanied by various pictures from throughout her career.
“I feel very privileged for every opportunity and have loved representing my country. I have met some amazing people, made friendships that will last a lifetime and travelled the world playing the game that I love” she continued.
“It also gave me a few scars and metal plates for good measure!
“When I look back on it, it is the little moments that make for the best memories. The highs have been some of the best days of my life, and the lows have taught me some valuable lessons.”
Evans goes on to thank her teammates, coaches, sponsors, supporters, friends and employers over the years, and describes playing and singing the national anthem at the World Cup final in London back in 2018 as “a dream come true.”
7 September 2018; President of Ireland Michael D Higgins and his wife Sabina greet Nikki Evans during a reception to honour the Ireland Women’s Hockey team and their performance at the 2018 Women’s Hockey World Cup at Áras an Uachtaráin in Phoenix Park, Dublin. Photo by Piaras Ó Mídheach/Sportsfile
She also adds a special mention to her family for their love and help over the years.
“To Mum, Dad, Rebecca, Ryan and Scott: the support, encouragement and unconditional love you have given me throughout my career can never be written in enough words” she says.
“Thanks for travelling the world with me, always being there to share in my good news, memorable moments and tough times too.
“You were there for it all.”
Finally, she wrapped up her statement with a poignant piece of advice, as well as a nod to what the future could hold.
“If you have a dream of representing your country, my advice is to surround yourself with people who believe in you, support you and believe in your dreams” she says.
“I am excited about the next chapter and look forward to repaying my nearest and dearest with love and support.”
200+ and now out, Nikki Evans will forever be and Irish hockey legend.
