Paul Wettlaufer announces retirement

July 1, 2010 

Canada’s defensive anchor on the men’s national team, Paul Wettlaufer, has announced his retirement from international Field Hockey.  Paul joined the national team in 1998 after being introduced to the sport at the age of 14.  His talent didn’t go unnoticed as it wasn’t long before he won the 1996 Fred Hoos Memorial Award, the North Shore Sport Award for outstanding achievement, was nominated for the 1998 British Columbia Athlete of the Year, and nominated for the 1999 Canadian team of the year.

Paul has led the defense for Canada as sweeper.  His tactical knowledge of the game has been invaluable in the execution and directing of play.  This combined with his tremendous intensity on the field has created a player that has become known as one of the world’s best tacklers.   Paul’s accomplished career includes two Olympics (2000 in Sydney and 2008 in Beijing), three Pan American Games (1999 in Winnipeg, 2003 in Santo Domingo, and 2007 in Rio de Janeiro), three Pan American Cups (2000 in Cuba, 2004 in London, ON and 2009 in Chile) three Commonwealth Games (1998 in Malaysia, 2002 in the United Kingdom, and 2006 in Melbourne) and one World Cup (2010 in Delhi). 

Paul has been a consummate team player whether acting as the men’s player representative or his determination to fight back after injuries.

"Paul was a big part of our team’s successes for more than a decade.  As a friend, former teammate and most recently as Paul’s coach, I have much respect for Paul’s contribution to our sport and for his consistent dedication to winning”, says head coach Alan Brahmst.  Alan continues adding, “Paul can be proud of his career, his accomplishments and his leadership. He will be missed by his team but I’m certain he’ll continue his involvement with our sport in one way or another."   

Thank you Paul for your dedication to the National Team, you are certainly leaving large shoes to fill.