Sian French’s career with Hockey Wales started in 2008 and she made her way through the under 18 and under 21 ranks before making her senior debut for Hockey Wales at the 2011 Celtic Cup.
Since then, captain Sian French has grown to become a key member of the Women’s senior squad, collating 130 caps for the side over 12 years including representing Team Wales at three Commonwealth Games, all whilst maintaining a professional career as a physiotherapist outside of her Hockey commitments.
Standout memories and competitions for Sian include her experience captaining the team at the 2022 Birmingham Commonwealth Games as well as featuring in an impressive six European championships.
Sian’s international hockey experience also includes two seasons as a member of the Great Britain Elite Development Squad.
Sian had the following to say on her career with Hockey Wales:
“I have thoroughly enjoyed my playing career and involvement with Hockey Wales and the decision for me to step away has not been an easy one. I feel the time is right for me personally and look forward to the opportunity for new challenges. I have been lucky enough to compete at World and European level representing my country, as well as leading the squad in more recent years. I will forever cherish the memories and experiences this has given me.
The support from players, staff and particularly my family that I have received during my career has been amazing! Thank you very much to everyone who has played a part. I wish the best for the team in this Summer's European Championships and in the future.”
Senior Women’s Head Coach Kevin Johnson commented:
“‘Although it is a shame to see Sian step away from International Hockey at this time, she leaves behind her a strong and powerful legacy of both performance and leadership which will continue to resonate with this group long after her departure and that should speak volumes about her contribution to Wales Senior Women. Her consistency of technical and tactical execution as a player brought a calmness and assuredness in our midfield and in recent years she has demonstrated these qualities and more in her leadership duties as both a Captain and Vice-Captain. Personally, she has been a tower of support to me as a Head Coach when it has been necessary and for this I will remain extremely grateful.”