‘I have lived my childhood dream …’ – Dirkie Chamberlain reflected on her career as the hockey stalwart announcement from internationals on Friday, 20 September 2024.
It can be said that Chamberlain who rose to prominence in the game in the 2000’s will leave it as the most experienced South African hockey player. For many of us, she is the first name we consider when it comes to Women’s Hockey.
Chamberlain’s exploits and achievements have etched her name in history books as one of the best players of the game, notching up a whopping 250 caps in her 18 years of playing and being a scoring force. She started her storied career in 2006, and was most recently part of the South Women’s Hockey team that participated in the Olympics Games.
Chamberlain shared the news of her retirement, saying that she will forever be grateful for being able to live her dream.
“I have lived my childhood dream and given everything I could to the badge. Every match, every moment, and every experience has been a privilege that I will cherish forever.”
Iconic SA Hockey stalwart, Dirkie Chamberlain
The 37-year-old is a player who has given hockey everything she has on as well as off the field and her records speak for itself. She has been to a whopping four Women’s Hockey World Cups as well as three Commonwealth Games.
She was also one of the first high-profile players to play in the Dutch and Belgian leagues, which has since become a very popular destination for our local players.
In her statement on Instagram, Chamberlain also thanked the South African Hockey Association, her teammates, anyone who crossed her path as well as her family.
“I want to extend my deepest gratitude to the South African Hockey Association and to all the coaches and teams that I have been privileged to be a part of. Thank you for your unwavering support and belief in me throughout my career, and for providing me with the opportunity to compete at the highest level and present my country with pride.”
“To everyone who crossed my path on or off the field – whether team or opponent, you have all played a role in shaping who I am today and for that, I am truly grateful.”
“To my family who have been my rock since day one: thank you for your endless encouragement, sacrifice, and love. Your presence both at home and in the stands has been my greatest source of strength. I could not have achieved what I have without your constant support.”
She did go on to say that she ‘will always be a passionate South African hockey and will contribute to the sport in any way she can’.
Chamberlain garnered much praise on social media from her now-former teammates. Among them was Celia Seerane who commented: “What an incredible career. So much to be proud of.”
Taheera Augousti was another team lever who summed up Chamberlain in one word: “Legend!”
Main Photo Caption: Pictured at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games: ‘I have lived my childhood dream …’ – Dirkie Chamberlain reflected on her career as the hockey stalwart announced her retirement from the game on Friday, 20 September 2024. Photo: FIH / SAHA
Graphic 2 Caption: Chamberlain leaves the game as the most experienced SA hockey player, for many, first among names when it comes to SA Women’s Hockey. Photo: SA Hockey
Photo 3 Caption: Chamberlain celebrates SA’s opening goal against Belgium at the UFS on Sunday, 6 February 2010. File Photo: Jacques Cato / World of Sport Photography
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