Lewis Prosser Reveals Retirement Call Was Made After Loss Of Father, David

Lewis Prosser has revealed the death of his father, David, was a major factor in his decision to retire from international hockey.

Prosser has opted to end his Wales career after winning 180 caps, a phenomenal tally that made him the most capped player in his country’s history.

After 15 years at the top, the East Grinstead player revealed his father’s death in 2021 had prompted him to re-think his level of commitment.

The 34-year-old, who represented Wales at three Commonwealth Games and seven European Championships, said: “Being introduced to hockey through my Dad at aged seven, it has been my passion and sole focus since then.

“My Dad, David Prosser represented Wales and GB and since his passing a couple of years ago, hockey has never been the same for me.

“Since my first cap in 2008 I’ve loved every minute playing for Wales and want to thank all the management staff throughout my whole career for the trust and support they have given me and the squads I’ve been part of.

“I’m going to miss my teammates more than anything, the relationship we’ve had in the current squad.

“I’ve always said it has been different to any other squad I’ve been part of and a key contribution to how we’ve come from being ranked 37th to 15th in the world.

The Hockey Family were saddened to hear that Wales and GB International David Prosser passed away on the 24 January 2021. Our thoughts are with the family at this sad time.

Full tribute: https://t.co/hlo5RYgugu

Pic: Lewis and David Prosser
(Courtesy of The Hockey Museum) pic.twitter.com/T83pnoAAWC

— Hockey Wales (@HockeyWales) January 27, 2021

Prosser was a key player as Wales made giant strides up the rankings, reaching A Division EuroHockey.

Wales men’s head coach Danny Newcombe said: “It is impossible to put into words the commitment and contribution Lewis has made to the senior men’s squad over his career.

“Through his 180 caps he has been instrumental to the progress and success we have had through his consistently high levels of performance on pitch, combined with his leadership off the pitch.

“On a personal note I would like to thank Lewis for everything he has done, it has been a genuine pleasure and you will be missed by all the staff and players.”

Hockey Wales’ most capped men’s player Lewis Prosser has announced his retirement from international hockey 🏑#playingforthedragon pic.twitter.com/HQJZrY24Gl

— Hockey Wales (@HockeyWales) June 27, 2023

As Prosser bows out, co-captain Rupert Shipperley is set to win his 100th Wales cap during the upcoming three-game series against Ireland at Hillsborough, Northern Ireland.

The games on 29 June, 1 July and 2 July are part of Wales’ build-up to the EuroHockey Championship I in July.

Rhys Bradshaw is set for a landmark 50th Wales appearance alongside Great Britain international Shipperley.

Jonny Fleck, Owen Sutton and Mike Wood are in line for senior Wales debuts.

Wales squad: Rhodri Furlong, Dewi Roblin, Gareth Griffiths, Toby Reynolds-Cotterill, Rhys Bradshaw, Daniel Kyriakides, Fred Newbold, Hywel Jones, Rupert Shipperley (co-capt), Steve Kelly, Ben Francis, Mike Wood, Luke Hawker (co-capt), Owen Sutton, Owain Dolan Gray, Jacob Draper, Jolyon Morgan, Alf Dinnie, Jonny Fleck, Jack Pritchard.

Captain @HockeyWales Rupert Shipperley reflects on Wales’ first ever FIH Men’s Hockey World Cup win. #HWC2023. pic.twitter.com/XP28QvMqL1

— International Hockey Federation (@FIH_Hockey) January 26, 2023