Wales Women’s O70s Make History at Home Nations Debut

Words from BBC Sport Wales

A groundbreaking chapter in Welsh sport was written this past weekend, as the first-ever Wales Women’s O70s Masters Hockey squad took to the field at the Home Nations tournament in Belfast (12th–14th June).

In a landmark moment for hockey in Wales, this newly formed team proudly represented the nation against traditional rivals England, Scotland, and LX, marking the first time a Welsh women’s squad of this age group had competed on such a stage.

On the pitch, the team delivered a series of strong and spirited performances. They opened with a hard-fought 0–0 draw against LX, followed by a 2–0 loss to England, before finishing on a high with an impressive 3–0 victory over Scotland.

That win proved particularly historic, with Gaynor Nash becoming the first-ever goalscorer for the Wales Women’s Over-70s side, netting twice in the match. In doing so, she added another remarkable milestone to her name, having also been the first goalscorer when the Wales Over-65s squad was initially formed.

Sherry Shawcross added the third goal in the victory over Scotland, sealing a memorable result for the team.

For Head Coach Hilary Hooper-Williams, the occasion was deeply personal. “This was one of the proudest moments of my career,” she said. “To see these women step onto the pitch in a Wales shirt for the first time at this level was truly special.”

More than just a sporting milestone, the team represented a powerful celebration of dedication, resilience, and enduring passion. The squad brought together a unique blend of experience and new beginnings, some players returning to international hockey after decades, others earning their first national caps later in life.

Together, they embodied a simple but powerful message: sport has no age limit.

“Their commitment has been incredible,” Hilary added. “Every training session showed their determination, their humour, and their unwavering belief in what they were doing. They inspired not just each other, but everyone who watched them play.”

The squad’s journey reflected the very best of Welsh sporting values; grit, unity, and pride.

These women were not only competing for results, but for representation: for those who came before them, and for future generations who will now see what is possible.

As they took to the field against their Home Nations counterparts, the significance of the occasion extended far beyond the pitch. It marked not only a historic debut, but a redefining of sporting longevity and national pride.

When the team walked out wearing the Welsh dragon, it signalled more than the start of a match. It marked a historic first, a celebration of lifelong sport, and a powerful statement of belonging.

In doing so, the Wales Women’s Over-70s squad did not just make history, they began to reshape it.

Next up is World Cup in Brasschaat, Belgium from 6^th -  16^th August.

To follow progress of all Womens Squads from Over 35s through to Over 70s be sure to follow Wales Womens Hockey Masters across Instagram and Facebook!