Shona McCallin: GB Olympic gold medallist retires from international hockey

McCallin has 62 caps for Great Britain and 60 for England

Olympic gold medal winner Shona McCallin has announced her retirement from international hockey.

The 31-year-old was part of the Team GB side that beat the Netherlands to top the podium at the 2016 Olympics in Rio.

McCallin, who has a total of 122 international caps for Great Britain and England, also claimed bronze at Tokyo 2020.

"This decision has not come lightly, but after many hours of thought, I know now the time is right," McCallin said.

"Over the last few months, I've come to realise that the mental and physical energy required to be part of the centralised programme is just not there any more. I am not, and will never be, someone who can only commit to something 80% or 90%."

McCallin spent 17 months out injured, missing the Commonwealth Games and Women's Hockey World Cup in 2018, after suffering a concussion while playing for England earlier that year.

She came back purposefully but said on Tuesday: "It's time to pass the number 24 shirt to someone new, who I hope can wear it with the same pride, grit and determination I did in every single game."

McCallin said she will continue to play and coach for Reading Hockey Club.

"Shona has made a phenomenal contribution to England and Great Britain Hockey through a period of true women's excellence," said England and Great Britain Hockey performance director Ed Barney.

"Her contribution to European, Commonwealth and Olympic titles and a vibrant, values-driven programme has been truly exceptional."