The news comes on the very same day that the South African women’s hockey team was announced to come in the African Hockey Cup of Nations in Ghana in early 2022.

Erasmus played in just 52 internationals before deciding to retire from the sport at the highest level.

While Erasmus had a short international career, she also represented South Africa at the FIH World League Semi-Final, Commonwealth Games, FIH World Cup and Olympic Games.

Erasmus said it was an honour to represent South Africa at the highest level in the sport and retires with peace in her heart.

“It’s been a wonderful honour to represent my country on the global stage. To stand with my teammates and sing the national anthem is a privilege that I will forever be grateful for.

“As I begin the next phase of my life and develop my career, it is the right time for me to move aside.

“The talent coming through leaves South African Hockey in a good space, and I am excited to watch from the stands supporting my country.

“Thank you to all my family and friends who have supported my journey!”

In 2021, Erasmus became an Olympian after making the team to represent South Africa at the Tokyo Olympic Games in Japan. 

This meant that she became a fourth generation Olympian and followed in the footsteps of her mother, Lynne (swimming), great-uncle Anthony Tasker (rowing) and great-great uncle, Frank Rushton (rowing).

Her mother represented Rhodesia (now Zinbabwe) at the 1980 Games in Moscow, the very same year Rhodesia won the Olympic gold in the women’s hockey.

Morgan Piek/OFM Sport