South African Hockey today pays tribute to Kristen Paton, who has announced her retirement from international hockey. The dynamic midfielder earned 80 test caps for the national side across a career spanning nearly a decade, representing South Africa with distinction at two Olympic Games, as well as two FIH Hockey Women’s World Cup and two Commonwealth Games.
Paton’s journey in green and gold began long before her senior debut, having represented South Africa at every level, including the Youth Olympic Games and Junior World Cup, underlining a career that consistently placed her among the country’s top talents from a young age.
She made her senior debut in 2017 at the Africa Cup in Egypt and quickly established herself as a key figure in the squad. From her first major international tournament at the Commonwealth Games on the Gold Coast to competing on the Olympic stage, Paton built a career defined by consistency, work rate, and an ability to deliver in big moments.
Domestically, her impact was equally significant. She was named Player of the Tournament in the Premier Hockey League in 2017 and also earned IPT Player of the Tournament honours, recognition of her influence across the South African hockey landscape.
In confirming her decision, Paton shared:
“Before I had many ambitious dreams, I only had one, I wanted to play for my country. At 16 when that became a reality, a whirlwind started, and now 10 years later as I look back, I feel two big emotions; it happened so fast, and it was all so beautiful.
All the things that little girl dreamed of came true: playing for my country, Olympic Games, playing abroad and competing against players I idolised. I couldn’t have asked for more.
There will never be a ‘right time’, but I always said when I could no longer give 120%, I would step away and that time is now. South Africa, nothing made me prouder than playing for you. Thank you.”
SA Hockey Head of High Performance, Reggie Smith, paid tribute to her contribution:
“Kristen has been a massive part of this team for a long time. She’s someone you could always rely on, whether it was in big moments or just bringing consistency to the group every single day.
She set standards through the way she trained and played, and that leaves a lasting impact on any environment. We thank her for everything she has given to South African Hockey and wish her all the best for what comes next.”
Thank you, Kristen Paton. #8
