The Barbados Olympic Association Inc. (BOA) is deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Andrea Nichols, a pillar of Barbadian hockey.
Andrea, who passed away on November 17, 2024, was more than just a distinguished athlete and sports administrator; she was a pioneer dedicated to advancing women’s sports in Barbados. Her contributions to hockey are truly remarkable. As a former national hockey player, international umpire, coach, and educator, her passion and dedication helped to transform the landscape of hockey nationally, regionally and internationally.
Her outstanding skills as a goalkeeper enabled the Barbados women’s hockey team to earn a bronze medal at the Central American and Caribbean Championships (CAC Games) in 1980, held in Mexico. This achievement marked the first senior female medal for any Barbados women’s hockey team. In that same year, she was selected for a regional Caribbean team that participated in the International Hockey Federation’s (FIH) Diamond Jubilee Tournament in Scotland.
After wrapping up her international playing career, Andrea made history in 1990 by becoming Barbados’ first female FIH umpire. Once she stepped back from international umpiring, she dedicated her time to coaching at both the club and national levels.
In March, the BOA recognised Andrea’s remarkable journey, presenting her with the 2024 Esther Maynard Icon Award, which celebrated her lifelong contributions to sports and her role as a trailblazer. As we mourn her loss, we also celebrate her life and the incredible legacy she leaves behind in the countless young athletes she mentored and inspired, as well as through the initiatives she championed for women’s empowerment in sports.
The Board of the BOA extends sincere condolences to Andrea’s family and the Barbados Hockey Federation.