Vale Shirley Leece

Vale Shirley Leece

Hockey WA is saddened to hear the passing of WA hockey legend and Life Member Shirley Leece.

Shirley was well-known and respected by all in the WA hockey scene, through her numerous efforts to involve herself within the sport for most of her life.

Shirley’s volunteering for hockey began in Busselton where she coached junior teams and umpired matches at all levels.

Shirley went above and beyond in all instances and travelled across the state to present discussions on umpiring techniques and the rules of hockey, as well as being heavily involved in the delivery of Country Week.

Shirley was an extremely talented umpire, umpiring from the grassroots to the international level, delivering her expertise as one of the inaugural WA junior umpire program organisers and coaches.

Upon retiring from umpiring, Shirley continued her involvement in the sport by becoming enthralled in the technical side of officiating.

Shirley involved herself with the FIH, working tirelessly to bring WA hockey in-line with the technical requirements of the FIH and Hockey Australia, resulting in significant advancement for the sport in Western Australia.

Shirley’s expertise led to her appointment as Tournament Director for many interstate championships, as well as membership in the Hockey Australia Technical Committee.

She was also appointed as a judge for numerous international championships, showcasing her dedication to the sport at all levels.

On top of working tirelessly in the officiating side of hockey, Shirley also acted as a selector and manager for many state teams.

Shirley’s achievements result in a resume to match the best; she was a member of the WA Women’s Hockey Association Executive, a WA delegate to Hockey Australia, a recipient of the 2000 Australian Sports Medal, a recipient of the WA Government’s 50 year Volunteer service badge, recognised through Hockey Australia’s State Service Award and received the Reg Goodridge Service Award & May Campbell Award for her services to hockey.

Her greatest honour came in the form of life membership for both Hockey WA and Hockey Australia.

Shirley was a highly regarded, loveable and memorable figure in hockey in Western Australia, and her commitments and passion for the sport will be dearly missed by all.

The Board and staff at Hockey WA along with the broader Hockey community extends our sincere condolences to John, Terry, Nola and family.