On Sunday, Stephanie Jameson put on the Team Canada jersey for the 164th time – surpassing the Women’s Canadian Cap Record holder, Laurelee “Jumbo” Kopeck. A cap is an officially recorded international appearance for Team Canada. Kopeck held the record for over ten years, reaching 163 caps in September 2001.
Steph’s first international appearance for Canada was at the 2002 Commonwealth Games in England. Since then she has competed in two Commonwealth Games (2006, 2010), three Pan American Games (2003, 2007, 2011) and two Pan American Cups (2004, 2009). Steph is hoping to add the 2012 Olympic Games to that list as she is currently competing at the FIH Olympic Qualification Tournament in New Delhi.
While Steph technically started playing field hockey at age eight when she joined the Vancouver Hawks, she has been surrounded by the sport her entire life. Her mother, Sue Jameson, played on the Women’s National Team in the 1970’s – and Steph received her first field hockey stick before she could talk. While Sue and Morley Jameson whole-heartedly supported their kids as they participated in a variety of sports – all three ended up committed to field hockey. Steph’s brother, David, is a member of the Men’s National Team and their sister, Katie, plays for the University of British Columbia Thunderbirds.
“You could say the kids have a genetic predisposition to field hockey,” says Sue. “We never pushed them into field hockey, but I’m obviously pleased they chose to play. They are very supportive of one another.”
Sue added – “Congratulations, Steph. I’ve always known you are capable, but you’re the one who had to put in the work day in and day out. We are extremely proud of you and what you’ve accomplished. I would also like to thank all of Steph’s coaches over the years, and to all those friends who have supported her.”
“Surpassing this record is a true reflection of Steph’s years of dedication and commitment to the program,” says Head Coach Louis Mendonca. “She brings intelligence and experience, along with valuable assets, to our current young squad. Congratulations, J!”
“It has been an honour to play with Steph,” says Team Captain Katie Baker. “I have played every one of my games with her. J’s constant communication and knowledge of the game have helped the entire team learn so much about the tactical side of the sport.”
“Congrats Steph,” says former record holder, Laurelee Kopeck. Kopeck’s advice to Steph is to keep playing as long as she’s enjoying it.
Kopeck began competing for Team Canada in 1989, and was named Team Captain in 1995. During her twelve-year career, Kopeck competed in the 1992 Olympic Games, two World Cups (1990, 1994), two Pan American Games (1991, 1999) and the 1998 Commonwealth Games. Since retiring in 2001, Laurelee has settled down in Duncan on Vancouver Island where she works with the Vancouver Island Health Authority to support individuals with mental health issues and addictions.
