Wilson will lead Scotland women’s hockey team

South African Jen Wilson has been appointed new Scotland women’s head coach on a three-year contract, replacing Gordon Shepherd, who held the post for eight years.

The three-time Olympian is no stranger to the Scotland set-up, having been assistant to Shepherd for the international campaigns from 2015 to 2017.

Wilson said: “It is a real honour to be appointed as the head coach of the Scotland women’s team.

“I have always been incredibly impressed with the passion these girls play with and their desire to continually make improvements in their game. I’m looking forward to working with the players, the support team, and the hockey community.”

Wilson represented South Africa on 180 occasions scoring 65 goals. She played at the Athens, Beijing and London Olympics as well as three World Cups and the same number of Commonwealth Games.

Since retiring as a player, Wilson has achieved success on the coaching front in England, in particular leading Canterbury to an Investec National Premier League title as well as two runners-up spots.

Scottish Hockey head of performance Andy Tennant said: “We are delighted to have a coach of Jen’s ability and potential on board.

“She has exactly the profile and philosophy we are looking for, with a great mix of skill, experience and ambition.”

Wilson will take up her post on 1 August.