Wellington Hockey joins our community in mourning the passing of Life Member and true stalwart of our game, Dayle Jackson.

Dayle’s contribution to hockey spanned more than six decades and reached every level of the game. She served Wellington Hockey as Chair, administrator, coach, manager, umpire and mentor, while also making an enormous contribution to the development of countless young players across our region.

Her contribution extended well beyond Wellington. Dayle managed the New Zealand Women’s team at the Sydney 2000 Olympic Games, was recognised as a Life Member of Hockey New Zealand, and in 2018 was appointed a Member of the New Zealand Order of Merit for her services to education and sport.

While those achievements speak to the scale of her contribution, Dayle’s greatest legacy will be the people she influenced. Generations of players, coaches, officials and volunteers benefited from her knowledge, encouragement and willingness to give her time to others, particularly young people finding their way into our game.

Her contribution to Wellington Hockey was immense and enduring. Fittingly, the Dayle Jackson Women’s Challenge Shield carries her name and will ensure her connection to our game continues for generations to come.

Our thoughts and deepest condolences are with Dayle’s whānau, friends, and the many people throughout the hockey community whose lives were richer for knowing her.

Thank you, Dayle, for a remarkable lifetime of service to hockey and our community.

Rest in love.