Margaret Chappell: Life Member of Auckland Hockey (28 October 1941 – 6 April 2021)

Margaret Chappell: Life Member of Auckland Hockey (28 October 1941 – 6 April 2021)

Auckland Hockey passes its condolences to the Family and Friends of Life Member Margaret Chappell. Friends and Family of Margaret have wonderful memories of a true sportswoman who was held in high esteem and affection in all facets of her life. Margaret was the quintessential hockey woman- player, coach and umpire.

Margaret passed away on 6 April 2021 aged 80. Life Membership of the AHA was awarded in the early 2000s and Margaret was also the recipient of an NZHF Service Award.

Margaret played for the Mt Eden Club, Auckland (1963-1977) and New Zealand in 1963, 1971 (World Cup), 1973 and 1975 (Vice Captain at the World Cup in Edinburgh). She was Mt Eden through and through, and was one of the icons of her club until her retirement in 1980. Margaret was a fiercely proud kiwi who always gave 100% on and off the field. She always trained very hard to maintain a high standard of fitness and skill throughout her hockey career.

In addition, Margaret was the President of the Auckland Ladies Hockey Association (ALHA) between 1985 and 1990.

Margaret was a member of winning Auckland K Cup teams in 1963, 1971 and 1977(Vice Captain).

On retiring from playing Margaret also umpired at the International level between 1981 and 1986 accompanying NZ teams. Margaret was an A Grade umpire and after her retirement  as a player she umpired at National Level and subsequently became a successful international  umpire officiating at tournaments in Malaysia, Australia, New Zealand and Canada. She was respected by players for her fairness, fitness and understanding of the game at the highest level having been there herself.

Auckland Hockey thanks Margaret Chappell, Life Member, for her selfless service and valued contribution to Hockey in Auckland and New Zealand.