More than 25 seasons later and Nic is still representing the club for the Ladies 2^nd XI – playing in the highest league in South Wales, Prem 1. Coach Alf Dinnie has these thoughtful words to share, “A stalwart in the team for the past number of seasons that I have been coaching, and within the club for many years before that. Nic has been an excellent leader, captaining the side to back-to-back promotions and a Welsh Cup! I have enjoyed working alongside her and her caring and thoughtful nature has, no doubt, made me a better coach as well as strengthening the closeness of the group. I’m really happy to have Nic on the pitch and always appreciate when she voices her views, especially as we are both similar and don’t always find it easy to do this!”

Nic is wholeheartedly devoted to her family, her biggest supporters – Mum Donna has been a huge presence on the sideline in the past and has even been promoted to emergency umpire at times! Thoughtful and caring, this devotion extends to Nic’s hockey family and there is no doubt that she is the most dependable and loyal friend to many of us. She hates a fuss but will fiercely defend her nearest and dearest when necessary, whether on or off the pitch. She’s also supremely calm and collected – some would say sensible to a fault. But the story tellers know better…

Imagine, if you will, a determined and competitive 2^nd XI squad barreling their way through the Welsh Cup rounds – leaving teams battered and bruised in their wake. Co-captained by Nic and Abby Mac, the team travelled North – almost as north as God’s Country allows. Opting to get the journey out of the way on the Saturday so legs were fresh for the match on Sunday, we booked a friendly B&B and headed out for some team bonding over food and quenching of thirst. Meals were finished, banter was exchanged and the night drew in – ‘Sip It Isitt’ forced the rest of the squad to have just ‘one more drink’ while she was fighting with the sheer volume of liquid in her regular-sized pint glass. It was time to retire to our beds to dream of the victory to come the next day… renowned socialite Abby Mac turns to her co-captain, “What shall we do now Nic?”. Quiet, dependable, sensible Hatchy responds, to a rousing cheer from all, “SHOTS?”

Social stories aside, there are countless times Nic has earned her legend stripes on the pitch. She has been an enormous part of the coaching team throughout her time with the club. Many members have grown into wiser and more skillful players under the wing of Coach Hatchy; and many of our club coaches, past and present, have developed both their personal skills and knowledge base as a direct result of Nic’s influence. As a player, you couldn’t ask for a better post man at defensive penalty corners – her eye for the ball has denied many strikers their moment of glory; and despite what a certain umpire has insinuated in the past, we know your intent is always honorable and legal!

Long may you be fighting our corner in blue and black – Nic Hatch, a true Cardiff Hockey legend.