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Hockeyroos coach Paul Gaudoin quits as findings from inquiry into claims of toxic culture set to be released

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Mitchell WoodcockThe West Australian
Paul Gaudoin has resigned as the coach of the Hockeyroos.
Camera IconPaul Gaudoin has resigned as the coach of the Hockeyroos. Credit: GARY DAY/AAPIMAGE

Hockeyroos coach Paul Gaudoin has quit as Hockey Australia prepares for tomorrow’s release of the findings from an independent inquiry into claims of the team’s toxic culture and bullying.

Gaudoin steps down after more than four years in the role, just months after denying claims from current and past players of severe cultural problems within the program.

There has also been player unrest after the shock axing of former captain Georgina Morgan and goalkeeper Rachael Lynch.

The former Kookaburras’ resignation follows that of high performance director Toni Cumpston and former assistant coach Steph Andrews, who is now the head of the WAIS Hockey Program.

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Hockey Australia chief executive officer Matt Favier, who told The West Australian back in December that he backed Gaudoin, said the coach’s decision to leave came on the back of the findings and recommendations from the independent review into the program.

“The past 12 months have been a difficult and taxing time for everyone involved in the high performance program and especially the coaching staff,” he said.

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“They have had to navigate the uncertainty of COVID while being an assuring and supportive presence for players, which Paul has done.

“He has conducted himself with integrity, devotion and commitment to the cause and done his utmost to improve the athletes, both as hockey players and as people.”

Gaudion said he was disappointed to not see the Hockeyroos to the Olympic Games in Tokyo later this year.

Hockeyroos coach Paul Gaudoin has stepped down after more than four years in the role.
Camera IconHockeyroos coach Paul Gaudoin has stepped down after more than four years in the role. Credit: RICHARD WAINWRIGHT/AAPIMAGE

“I have spent more than half my life involved with the high performance program as a player for the Kookaburras and as a coach for both the Hockeyroos and Kookaburras,” he said.

“I am proud to have helped get the Hockeyroos to be ranked second in the world.

“I wish both teams every success in Tokyo. It is time to focus on my family and begin a new chapter of my life. I love our game and hope it stays relevant in a competitive sporting environment.

“Thank you to all those staff and athletes who have supported me over many years. I have made many lifelong friends along the way.”

Hockey Australia president Mel Woosnam praised Gaudoin’s time in the program, despite months of turmoil and upheaval, which saw players threaten to strike.

“On behalf of the board and staff of Hockey Australia, we extend our sincere thanks and appreciation to Paul for the commitment and dedication he has shown as head coach of the Hockeyroos,” she said.

“He has taken this team from number six in the world after the Rio Olympics to number two at the end of 2019 and this should be commended.

“Paul’s technical and tactical knowledge of the game is second to none and he has always conducted himself professionally and in the best interests of the program and the athletes. We wish Paul and his family all the best for the future.”

Assistant coach Katie Allen will assume the interim head coach role, with Hockey Australia intending to announce a replacement for the head coach and assistant coach roles shortly that will take the squad through to the end of the Tokyo Olympics.

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