Jane Sixsmith was born on September 5th, 1967

Jane Sixsmith: The Pioneering Field Hockey Player

Jane Sixsmith is a renowned British field hockey player, celebrated for being the first female player to represent Great Britain at four Olympic Games. With an impressive career spanning over a decade, she has left an indelible mark on the sport, earning numerous accolades and inspiring generations of hockey players.

The Rise to Fame

Born on September 5, 1967, in Sutton Coldfield, Birmingham, West Midlands, Sixsmith took up hockey at the age of 12, after being told she could no longer play for a boys' football team. She soon discovered her passion for the sport and began playing at the club level for her hometown, Sutton Coldfield. As a teenager, she was selected as a reserve for the England under-18 netball team before being chosen for England's under-18 hockey squad.

Olympic Glory and International Success

Sixsmith's dedication and hard work paid off when she became a member of the British squad that won the bronze medal at the 1992 Summer Olympics in Barcelona. This achievement cemented her position as a pioneer in women's field hockey. She went on to represent Great Britain at three more Olympic Games, including the 2000 Summer Olympics in Sydney, Australia. During her international career, she scored over 100 goals and won 165 caps for England and 158 for Great Britain.

Awards and Honors

Sixsmith's impressive career has been recognized with several prestigious awards. She was appointed an MBE (Member of the Order of the British Empire) in recognition of her services to hockey. Her honors also include a European Cup gold medal in 1991 and a Commonwealth silver medal in 1998.

Continuing to Inspire

Even after retiring from the international scene, Sixsmith continues to play National League hockey for Sutton Coldfield Hockey Club. In 2013, she participated in the Maxifuels Super Sixes indoor hockey finals, where her team reached the final, and she scored the second goal in their 2-5 defeat to champions Reading HC.

Legacy and Impact

Jane Sixsmith's remarkable career has paved the way for future generations of female hockey players. Her dedication, perseverance, and achievements have inspired countless young players to take up the sport. Her legacy continues to motivate and empower women in hockey, making her a true icon in the world of sports.

• European Cup gold medal (1991)
• Commonwealth silver medal (1998)
• Olympic bronze medal (1992)
• MBE (Member of the Order of the British Empire)

Personal Milestones

* Attended St Joseph's Catholic Primary School and Bishop Walsh Catholic School * Played hockey at club level for Sutton Coldfield * Represented England and Great Britain at the international level By continuing to play and inspire others, Jane Sixsmith remains a beloved figure in the world of field hockey, leaving a lasting legacy that will continue to motivate and inspire generations to come.