Honouring a Territory Legend: Brooke Peris Retires, Leaving a Legacy for Future Generations

Honouring a Territory Legend: Brooke Peris Retires, Leaving a Legacy for Future Generations

Hockey NT and the entire Territory community are proud to celebrate and honour the remarkable career of our very own Brooke Peris. A proud Ngarrawanji woman affectionately known as “Chookie,” Brooke has not only left an indelible mark on hockey but has been a shining star for Northern Territory sport, Indigenous Australians, inspiring countless athletes over her 13-year journey since her international debut in 2013. Her dedication, resilience, and achievements reflect the spirit of the Territory, uplifting our community and reminding us of the power of sport to bring people together and fuel aspirations across generations.

Picture: Sourced

Brooke’s journey reached a historic milestone this April as she celebrated her 200th international appearance, making her the most-capped Indigenous Australian hockey player of all time. This extraordinary achievement stands as a beacon of inspiration and pride for Indigenous people across Australia. With 214 caps for Australia, 39 goals, three Olympic Games in Rio, Tokyo, and Paris, and the honour of captaining the national team, her achievements are iconic.

•            Champions Trophy Gold Medallist (2016, 2018)

•            Australian Captain

•            Commonwealth Games Gold & Silver Medallist (2014)

•            2014 Northern Territory Sportsperson of the Year

•            2023 NT Sports Awards - Steve Abala Role Model Administrators Medal

•            Hockey NT Life Member

From the moment she first held a hockey stick, Brooke Peris seemed destined for greatness. Wearing her iconic number 3 from a young age, Brooke carried a spark that was impossible to ignore, a rare blend of raw talent and fierce determination. Her blistering speed, effortless ball control, and smooth, instinctive play left spectators in awe, even as early as her under 8 days. Growing up in a legendary Territory sporting family, alongside her four siblings and a generation of talented older cousins, Brooke wore the Peris name with pride. Yet, she also carved out her own legacy, making "Peris" and the number 3 a symbol of excellence and determination for Northern Territory sport.

Brooke’s journey to greatness was far from easy. Growing up in a remote region and representing the NT meant she faced unique challenges, but these obstacles only strengthened her resolve. Rather than letting them hold her back, Brooke transformed adversity into fuel, pushing herself not just for her own dreams but to open doors for others. Brooke displayed bravery in the difficulty of leaving her hometown, family and tight knit support groups to pursue her dreams. Her unwavering work ethic and resilience became more than a personal mission; they were a testament to her leadership and dedication to inspiring future generations to believe in their own potential and possibilities.

Brooke’s impact goes far beyond medals and caps. She’s the ultimate teammate, someone who elevates everyone around her simply by being her authentic, inspiring self. Her skill on the field motivates her teammates, while her leadership instils confidence, guidance, and unwavering support. Off the field, she’s an incredible friend, mentor, and advocate, always there to make sure those around her feel seen and heard.

Her commitment to the next generation of players has always been important to her. Just last month, she cheered passionately for the NT under 14 teams at the National Championships in Perth and gifted the girls' team some of her own Australian representative gear. For Brooke, it was a small gesture, but to those young players who idolise her, it meant the world. Despite her status, she is always humbled and genuinely shocked by the admiration she inspires.

Brooke, Brookie, Chookie, Alice, no matter what you call her, she is a Territory legend, a pioneer for NT sport, a role model for Indigenous people, and a beacon for young athletes. She is an absolute superstar, and we are beyond grateful to have witnessed her journey, her athletic brilliance, and most importantly, the wonderful person and leader of our community that she has become.

Thank you, Brooke, for paving the way for Territory hockey and for the legacy of strength, resilience, and kindness you leave behind. Enjoy retirement, Brooke, we are incredibly proud of you!

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