Rob Short enters as the second most capped Canadian hockey player
In the Athletes Category of the Hall of Fame, Field Hockey Canada proudly inducts Rob Short, a trailblazer whose influence on the sport has been both profound and lasting. Renowned for his leadership and dedication, Short’s illustrious career has left an indelible mark on Canadian field hockey.
Short, who captained the national team for seven years, stands as the second most capped Canadian national player of all time. His journey began in Tsawwassen, BC, where his initial passion for ice hockey was redirected by his parents towards field hockey. “They made it clear that ice hockey wasn’t an option, so field hockey became my focus,” Short recalled. “We were fortunate in Tsawwassen to have a strong field hockey program.”
From those early days, Short’s career soared. He honed his skills with the Tsawwassen Falcons, the University of Victoria Vikes, and the BC Provincial team before making his mark on the national team. At just 12 years old, Short’s ambition to reach the Olympic stage was sparked when he saw his coach, Mike Mueller, on television. “Seeing my coach on TV made me realize the scope and potential of field hockey,” Short explained. “That moment ignited my dream of competing in the Olympics.”
Despite his early aspirations, Short faced significant challenges on his path to the national team. “There were times when I struggled to make the team while watching my friends succeed,” he shared. “It wasn’t until a new coach recognized my energy and potential that I finally got my chance.” This pivotal opportunity marked the beginning of an extraordinary career.
Short’s impressive career includes participation in five Pan American Games, four Commonwealth Games, and two World Cups. His crowning achievement came when Team Canada secured gold at the 1999 Pan American Games, fulfilling his childhood dream of competing in the Olympics. “When we qualified for the Olympics, it was a surreal moment. We ran to our families, overwhelmed with joy,” Short recalled.
He lived out that Olympic dream a second time when Canada qualified for the 2008 Summer Olympics in Beijing. Throughout his career, Short also played professionally in Europe, showcasing his skill and dedication on an international stage.
After retiring from playing in 2012, Short transitioned into coaching. “I realized I wasn’t fully prepared for this new phase, but coaching quickly became my passion,” Short said. His dedication led him to establish the Rob Short Field Hockey Academy, where he continues to mentor and inspire the next generation of players.
Reflecting on his career, Short emphasized the passion that drove him. “I loved the sport, the community, and the mentality of field hockey,” he said. “I hoped to be remembered as someone who loved playing for his country and was deeply passionate about the game.”
As Rob Short joins the Field Hockey Canada Hall of Fame, his legacy stands as a testament to the power of dedication, leadership, and love for the sport. His contributions have set a high standard in Canadian field hockey and continue to inspire future generations.
