When you think about the greats of Black Sticks hockey players Phil Burrows is up at the top of the table. He played a record 343 tests for the New Zealand men’s hockey team and rattled in 150 goals. Yes 343 tests. A feat not too many International players worldwide can claim to. He made his Black Sticks debut as a 19-year-old in January, 2000. Therefore his career as an international player spanned over 16 years. He became one of the most lethal strikers in the world
While he scored many important goals, helping the team to silver and bronze medals at the Commonwealth Games, and also captained the New Zealand side from 2009-2011, his prolonged professional career in Europe is further endorsement of his standing in the international arena. Burrows played 11 seasons for some of the biggest clubs in the hockey-mad Netherlands and said the game had given him so much, on and off the field. See the below video where Phil discusses his retirement decision
What is commendable about Burrows was his approach to the game. He recently stated “You just make great mates, lifetime mates all over world. I just loved the competitiveness of it and the top level stuff was all I wanted to play. Scoring a goal for your country is such special thing. You’d work so hard just to get that bloody ball over the line, when you did it just felt awesome.” Watching him play one can say that competitive spirit did not wane over his International playing career.
In recognition of his dedication in playing for his country Phil recently was made a Member of the New Zealand Order of Merit in the 2016 New Year’s New Zealand Honours list. And true to form Phil was humbled by the award. “Hearing I was actually going to be on the list, I feel pretty privileged and honoured. I’m just a hockey player, you don’t expect you get this kind of honour” he reportedly said.
And what now for Phil Burrows? Coaching an International hockey team is now in Phil’s sights. After recently being an assist coach for the Black Sticks men at their Four Nations tournament in Melbourne Phil has taken up the position as director of hockey and player/coach at the Melbourne University Club.
Which begs the question, will someone who has done so much for New Zealand as a player one day add to that contribution as a head coach? Time will tell but if passion for hockey and determination are considered watch this space.
Source: various
