Katrina Powell has quit as Australia women’s coach after four and a half years.
Powell took charge in the lead-up to the rescheduled Tokyo 2020 Olympics during a challenging period for the programme.
The Hockeyroos secured a bronze medal at the 2022 Women’s World Cup under her tenure, alongside quarter-final placings in Tokyo and Paris 2024. They are currently the world No.7 side.
Hockey Australia CEO David Pryles said: “She stepped into the role during a turbulent time and played a key role in stabilising and rebuilding the Hockeyroos culture.”
Powell said: “I’m proud to have taken the group forward. With the 2026 squad selection process about to commence I felt it was the right time to step down and clear the path for the next head coach of the Hockeyroos.”
Powell, a former double Olympic champion with the Hockeyroo, had replaced Paul Gaudoin, who stood down in 2021 before a review which found a toxic culture within the programme.
The women’s programme also experienced negative headlines during Powell’s time regarding its culture and environment.
Ex Hockeyroo Rosie Malone accused her former employers of “power abuse” and “abruptly and inexplicably” putting an end to her international career after she was omitted from the senior women’s programme for 2025.
Her omission divided opinion which then saw a social media declaration from 20 current Hockeyroos vouching for the programme’s “professional, welcoming and understanding culture”.
