Australia woman hockey player Jayde Taylor Friday announced her retirement with immediate effect.
The 29-year-old informed the head coach Adam Commens and teammates earlier this week, calling time on a 107-cap international career that culminated with the winning of the 2014 Glasgow Commonwealth Games gold. The Olympian retires as a two-time Commonwealth Games champion and World Cup silver medallist.
Since making her debut in a 4-0 win over Great Britain in June 2010, Taylor went on to represent Australia at the Olympics, two World Cups, two Commonwealth Games, the 2011 Champions Trophy and the Oceania Cup.
"I've been thinking long and hard over the past few months. There are several reasons I've chosen to call it a day. Many past players have said to me you 'just know' when it's time. I believe it is the right decision and the right time," Taylor said.
"I like to think I am a gracious person who really appreciates current and past experiences and very much dislikes letting people down. I feel that is what I would be doing if I kept going."
Recalling some of her career highlights, the defender from Bunbury said: "The World Cup silver and the 2014 Commonwealth Games gold are two special highlights for me but I will never forget being part of the Olympics simply because of the event it was."
Taylor is currently in the Netherlands playing club hockey for HC Bloemendaal and hopes to remain in the sport in the future, in coaching or administration.
