NIC WOODS CELEBRATES 200 INTERNATIONAL MATCHES WITH A SURPRISE
A remarkable international career reaches another milestone as Nic Woods becomes the latest Vantage Black Stick to reach 200 caps.
The 31-year-old marked the occasion against Ireland at the Belfius Hockey Arena in Wavre, bringing up 200 international appearances after more than a decade representing New Zealand.
But before Woods could take to the turf for his milestone match, he was given a moment he will remember for the rest of his life.
As the teams lined up ahead of the national anthems, Woods’ mother Wendy walked onto the pitch alongside Hockey New Zealand CEO Michelle Hollands to surprise him and acknowledge his 200th international appearance.
It was an emotional moment for Woods, who has shared his international journey with his family throughout his career.
“Honestly, it’s such a special moment. Not just for me, but also for my family,” Woods said.
“I got to have my mum walk out on the turf on behalf of my family and share that privilege with me, which brought tears to my eyes. It was pretty hard to keep it together pre-match, but I’m glad she got to share that moment with me.”
Woods made his international debut for New Zealand in 2014 and has since established himself as one of the most experienced players in the Vantage Black Sticks current environment.
His journey has taken him from a country school to the international stage, representing New Zealand at major tournaments around the world and making hockey a huge part of his life.
“I’m fortunate to share this experience and this journey with my family for 12 years now,” Woods said.
Reaching 200 international appearances is a significant achievement in its own right, but for Woods, the milestone is about more than the number.
It represents the people who have supported him throughout the journey and the experiences shared along the way.
When asked about his favourite moment from the World Cup, the answer wasn’t playing the Netherlands in the World Cup opener, the team scoring 17 goals in three matches or finishing ninth in the world.
“It was the moment I turned around and my mum was there walking onto the pitch. That was probably one of my favourite moments in my hockey career so far,” said Woods.
“I think it’s the first time she’s ever had the privilege of walking on a hockey court like that. And sharing that moment with me is just beautiful.”
After 200 international appearances, Woods’ journey with the Vantage Black Sticks continues, with the milestone providing another special chapter in a career that began more than a decade ago.