Lewis Prosser, Hockey Wales’ most capped men’s player, has announced his retirement from international hockey, admitting that the death of his influential father played a significant part in his decision.
Since receiving his first cap in 2008, Prosser has gone on to achieve 180 caps for Wales and has been a key figure in the men’s team for 15 years, culminating in an historic first appearance at the Hockey World Cup 2023.
Prosser said: “Being introduced to hockey through my Dad at aged seven, it has been my passion and sole focus since then. My Dad, David Prosser represented Wales and GB and since his passing a couple of years ago, hockey has never been the same for me.
“Since my first cap in 2008 I’ve loved every minute playing for Wales and want to thank all the management staff throughout my whole career for the trust and support they have given me and the squads I’ve been part of.
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“I’m going to miss my teammates more than anything, the relationship we’ve had in the current squad, I’ve always said has been different to any other squad I’ve been part of and a key contribution to how we’ve come from being ranked 37th to 15th in World.
Prosser featured in three Commonwealth Games and seven Europeans as Wales made giant strides up the rankings and to A Division EuroHockey.
Men’s head coach Danny Newcombe said: “It is impossible to put into words the commitment and contribution Lewis has made to the senior men’s squad over his career.
“Through his 180 caps he has been instrumental to the progress and success we have had through his consistently high levels of performance on pitch, combined with his leadership off the pitch.
“On a personal note I would like to thank Lewis for everything he has done, it has been a genuine pleasure and you will be missed by all the staff and players.”
Congratulations Lewis, you have been an outstanding player. Good luck with all that you do 😊🏑