Nelson’s Kelsey Smith Black Sticks bolter for Olympics

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Nelson’s Kelsey Smith has been the bolter in the New Zealand Black Sticks women’s hockey team for the Rio Olympics announced today.

The 21-year-old former Waimea College pupil will be part of the 16-strong team, with Anita McLaren (formerly Punt) set to attend to her second Olympic campaign.

Kelsey looks to have benefitted from defender Emily Gaddum’s pregnancy which has left a spot available.

Kelsey has played 20 matches under coach Mark Hager.

Kayla Whitelock will be the captain, while Anita will be part of a senior leadership group during the Olympics which begin in August.