Born and raised in Victoria with four brothers, Nancy couldn’t help but be competitive. She earned her Bachelor’s degree at the University of Victoria where she had a successful career with the Vikettes Field Hockey team from 1980-1985. She was named CIAU Athlete of the Year and an All-Canadian in both 1983-84 and 1984-85 and, in her final year, captained the team to its first CIAU title.

Nancy played on the Canadian National Women’s field hockey team from 1982 to 1989, during which time she attended two Olympic Games, two World Cups and a Pan American Games. She was both a leader and a pioneer who put her heart and soul into women’s sport at the highest level. Although a naturally gifted athlete, Nancy’s success can very much be credited to her phenomenal work ethic that had a ripple effect on all of those around her.

“She thrived in a culture of hard work as she was able to do anything she set her mind to,” said teammate, fellow Olympian and coach, Lynne Beecroft.

A versatile player, Nancy made the transition from striker, to sweeper to, finally, competing in the midfield. Her on-field intelligence, in combination with her impressive technical skills, enabled her to continue to grow and play an increasingly larger role within the national team program which she co-captained for many years. Her wit and charisma gained her the respect of her teammates. The depth of her commitment and impact on the national team program was exemplified when she was asked to be the flag bearer at the 1987 Pan American Games.

Nancy was an integral part of what is known as Canadian Women’s Field Hockey’s greatest dynasty - a team which, throughout the 1980’s, qualified for every single world-class event and medalled in many as they brought home silver and bronze medals from the 1983 and 1986 World Cups respectively.

Tenacity and perseverance are what allowed Nancy to reach the ultimate heights of her sport, but she is quick to credit those around her along the way for any success she encountered. With her trademark humour and upbeat attitude, she was - and continues to be - a role model for women in sport. She has left behind a legacy of excellence, playing for both her university and her country.

Upon retirement, Nancy sought employment as a physical education teacher at St. Michaels University School, where she is the driving force behind the field hockey program. She remains a key member of Victoria’s field hockey community as both a coach and organizer at every level of the game. She is still actively playing first division field hockey in Victoria.

In July 2015, Nancy Mollenhauer joined an elite group of Canadian field hockey players and builders, and was inducted into Field Hockey Canada’s Hall of Fame as part of the inaugural class. She is married to husband, Ian, and has two field hockey playing daughters, Arden and Anna, who followed in their mother’s footsteps.

SPONSORED BY ST. MICHAELS UNIVERSITY SCHOOL