Maria Verschoor has announced her retirement from the international game following an incredible career, encompassing 214 caps, two Olympic, four European and one World Cup gold.
The 2022 and 2024 EHL winning captain will also call time on her club career with AH&BC Amsterdam at the end of this season.
“It feels good to make this choice,” she said in an article on hockey.nl. “I have had some great years, but I am moving on now. When you feel it, you feel it. It’s been great. I’ve been through everything. Now it’s time to see what I want to see. What gives me energy. I need freedom.”
It means the 30-year-old’s final act in a Dutch context was a shoot-out in the Olympic final in Paris. After that, she took time to travel before playing in the Hockey India League.
Prior to that, she had not thought about retiring but the rest allowed her time to realign her priorities and plans for the future.
“Before I left [for Brazil], I really thought I would join the team again. But it doesn’t feel like that anymore. I didn’t really expect that at all but I’m very satisfied. I’ve had a fantastic career. I don’t need another European or World Championship. I’m looking forward to other things.
“I’ve always dreamed of playing hockey abroad for a year. After thirteen years in the Hoofdklasse, I want something different. I want to choose adventure and the good life.
“I am going to take the time to see what I want. What gives me energy. I do not see myself working from nine to five. I want to start something myself. I have so many great ideas. Think of coaching talents online or building my own health community.”
It means Dutch fans will have a couple of months to see the icon in action for AH&BC on the local scene before she makes her next move, a series of matches she is really looking forward to.
“I’m going to enjoy it immensely. And I want to give it my all. I promised my teammates that too. I want to finish the play-offs well, no matter what.”
