Great Britain Hockey announced today (Monday 3 February) that Sheila Morrow will step down as President at the conclusion of her term in March. Morrow, who has served in the role since 2017, has been a pivotal figure in the sport, bringing a wealth of experience and dedication to the development of hockey in Great Britain.
Under Morrow’s leadership as GB Hockey President, the organisation has seen significant growth and success, including the continued development of both the men’s and women’s programmes. Her tenure has been marked by a commitment to inclusivity, innovation, and excellence within British hockey. In recognition of her contributions to sport, Morrow was inducted into the Welsh Sports Hall of Fame in 1990 and was appointed an Officer of the British Empire (OBE) in the 2019 Queen’s Birthday Honours.
A former international player, umpire, and official, Morrow’s career in hockey spans over five decades. She began her playing career with the Wales women’s national field hockey team in 1967 and went on to represent both Wales and Great Britain at the highest levels of the sport. Over her career, she earned 112 caps for Wales, captaining the side from 1982 to 1984, and played 24 matches for Great Britain, serving as captain in 1981 and 1982.
Following her playing career, Morrow transitioned into officiating, becoming an international umpire and later an official for the International Hockey Federation (FIH). She officiated at major global events, including the women’s hockey competitions at the 2008 and 2012 Olympic Games. Her contributions to the governance of the sport continued through her work with the Sports Council for Wales and Sport England, further solidifying her legacy in British sport.
Reflecting on her time as President, Morrow said:
"It has been an immense privilege to serve as President of Great Britain Hockey. Hockey has been a defining part of my life, and I am incredibly proud of the progress we have made in growing and promoting the sport.
"I would like to thank all the players, coaches, officials, and volunteers who make British hockey the thriving community that it is today, and trust my successor enjoys their period of tenure as much as I have."
GB Hockey Chief Operating Officer Nick Pink added:
"On behalf of everyone at GB Hockey, I would like to extend our deepest thanks to Sheila for her outstanding service and leadership. She has played an instrumental role in shaping the future of British hockey, and her passion and commitment have been truly inspiring. We wish her all the best for the future and know that she will always be a valued member of the hockey community."
The application for the Great Britain Hockey President is now live, and the appointment of a new President will be announced in due course.