Helen Richardson-Walsh is a name synonymous with excellence in the field of hockey. With a career spanning over two decades, she has established herself as one of the most accomplished midfield players, not only in England but also in Great Britain. As a patron for the Proud Lilywhites, a Tottenham Hotspur LGBTQ Supporters Club, she uses her platform to champion LGBTQ rights in sports. Her personal journey as an openly LGBTQ athlete makes her an inspiring role model for aspiring athletes who may be navigating similar challenges.
Helen's hockey career is a testament to her dedication and skill. She earned an impressive 293 international caps, a feat that places her as the 5th most-capped female Great Britain Hockey player. Her crowning achievement came at the 2016 Summer Olympics, where she was part of the GB team that clinched the gold medal. Her journey began as the youngest female Hockey Olympic player, marking her as a rising star in the sport. Over the years, she added silver and bronze medals in the Commonwealth Games to her illustrious resume.
Not only a prolific player, but Helen also took on leadership roles in the hockey world. In 2012, she captained Team GB in the London Olympics, guiding her team to a bronze medal. Helen also ventured into coaching, serving as a Coach at Hampstead & Westminster Hockey Club and Head Coach of Cambridge City HC. Her versatility extends beyond hockey; she even held the position of Performance & Culture Coach for the prestigious Tottenham Hotspur Football Club.
Helen's passion for sharing her experiences and knowledge led her to co-author the book "Winning Together: An Olympic-Winning Approach to Building Better Teams." In this book, she imparts valuable lessons learned during her journey to Olympic success. Her commitment to excellence has not gone unnoticed, as she was honoured with the National Lottery Spirit of Sport Award at the 2017 Sports Journalist Association British Sports Awards. In 2021, Helen achieved another milestone by completing her Master's degree in Industrial and Organisational Psychology from City, University of London, further enhancing her expertise in team dynamics and peak performance.
Appointed MBE for her services to hockey in the 2017 New Year's Honours List, Helen has not only left an indelible mark on the field of sports but also on society through her advocacy for diversity, inclusion, and LGBTQ rights. Her remarkable journey and unwavering commitment to excellence make her a compelling keynote speaker who can inspire audiences in the realms of hockey, LGBTQ rights, diversity, inclusion, and peak performance. Helen Richardson-Walsh is not just a name; she is a symbol of triumph, resilience, and the power of authenticity. Hire her today to leave a lasting impact on your event.
