Gemma McCaw has written a heartfelt post on social media tonight, confirming her retirement from the Black Sticks and that she is "excited about the next chapter."
On Thursday, it was announced the Black Sticks midfielder will take an indefinite break from international hockey, to focus on her career away from the game.
McCaw, 27, has played 246 Tests for the Black Sticks, the third most capped woman in New Zealand's history. She has not featured in the Black Sticks since the 2016 Rio Olympics.
Alongside a photo of McCaw in her Black Sticks uniform that was posted to her Instagram account tonight, she wrote it was time to "announce the end of my hockey career with the Black Sticks."
"I feel very privileged for every opportunity I have had over the last nine years and have loved representing my country," the wife of All Blacks legend Richie McCaw wrote.
"During this time I have met some amazing people, made friendships that will last a lifetime and travelled the world playing the game I love."
"To the girls that I've played alongside, it's been an absolute pleasure and I've enjoyed sharing the highs, lows, blood, sweat and tears that we've been through.
"We've dealt with some huge setbacks, coming agonizingly close to an Olympic Medal on two occasions and I admire you all for giving everything you have."
As well as thanking her sponsors and supporters, McCaw honoured her friends and family.
"It would've been a lot harder without your love and support. Thanks for always being there and sharing in my good news and tough times too.
"Thanks Mum and Dad, I know you did everything you could and having you there always supporting meant the world to me.
"Its never easy making a decision like this but it's been a great ride and I'm excited about the next chapter."
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