Nicci Wardell has been named as the new head coach of Great Britain Under-16 Women.
Wardell has worked for four years with the England programme, spending a year as coach of U14 boys and three years as coach of the U14 and U16 girls.
She will be assisted by Monica Petrosino who made 10 appearances for the national team – the most recent in Dumfries in 2019 where she helped GB Women win the silver medal.
“I am looking forward to us being able to return to the ice and can’t wait to begin work with GB Under-16 Women,” said Wardell, who has also coached at both U11 and U17 within the EIHA Conference structure.
“It is something I have always wanted to do since I began coaching, having been privileged enough to wear the GB jersey during my own playing career.”
Petrosino said: “For me, to wear the GB shirt as a player was always the greatest honour. To be appointed as part of the under-16s coaching team is something I have had huge ambitions since having to step down from playing at a national level.
“I particularly look forward to helping the girls develop an all-rounded approach to their hockey careers, including off-ice fitness, nutrition and optimal athlete mindset. I hope to pass on my passion for ice hockey and what it means to represent your country to the next generation of GB athletes.”
Great Britain Women’s captain Saffron Allen will also assist the team as a mentor.
GB Programme Board chairman, David Hand, said: “I think the future of the talent in the GB Women’s programme is in very safe hands.
“The coaching staff gave some fantastic interviews and their vision for the future is very exciting. We look forward to the coaches working with the exceptional young women’s talent we have within our sport.”