A Dutch field hockey player who won two Olympic gold medals and is a three-time FIH Player of the Year. She is considered one of the greatest players in the history of the sport.
Carole Thate is a renowned Dutch former field hockey player, celebrated for her exceptional skills on the field and her remarkable achievements in the sport. With an impressive 168 international matches under her belt, Thate has left an indelible mark on the world of field hockey.
Born on December 6, 1971, in Utrecht, Netherlands, Thate's passion for field hockey was evident from a young age. She made her debut for the Netherlands national team on November 20, 1989, in a friendly match against England, marking the beginning of an illustrious career.
Thate's most notable achievements include winning bronze medals at the 1996 Summer Olympics in Atlanta, Georgia, and the 2000 Summer Olympics in Sydney. During her playing career, she captained the Dutch team and played as a midfielder for various clubs, including Shinty, Schaerweyde, Kampong, and Amsterdam.
After retiring from professional hockey, Thate went on to become the director of the Dutch Johan Cruijff Foundation in Amsterdam. She is married to Australian field hockey striker Alyson Annan, one of the highest international goal scorers. Together, they have two sons, Sam and Cooper, born in 2007 and 2008, respectively.
In 1996, Thate received the prestigious Honda Award (now known as the Honda Sports Award) as the nation's best field hockey player while attending James Madison University.
Carole Thate's contributions to field hockey extend beyond her impressive playing career. As a role model and inspiration to many young athletes, she has made a significant impact on the sport. Her dedication, perseverance, and achievements have paved the way for future generations of field hockey players.
Carole Thate's remarkable journey serves as a testament to her passion, dedication, and love for the sport of field hockey. Her legacy continues to inspire and influence the world of field hockey, ensuring her place as one of the all-time greats.