CALGARY – Hockey Canada announced Thursday that two-time Olympic gold medallist Sarah Vaillancourt, who won silver with Canada’s National Women’s Team at the 2013 IIHF Ice Hockey Women’s World Championship earlier this month in Ottawa, has retired from international competition.

“On behalf of Hockey Canada and fans across the country, we thank Sarah for her dedication to Canada’s National Women’s Program, and contributions not only to the team, but to female hockey overall,” Hockey Canada president and CEO Bob Nicholson said. “We wish Sarah all the best in her future endeavours. We will always remember the passion with which she played the game.”

Sarah Vaillancourt, 27, made her debut with Canada’s National Women’s Team as an 18-year-old in 2003 and appeared in a total of 107 games with the national team, amassing 45 goals, 53 assists and 98 points. Vaillancourt won Olympic gold in 2006 and 2010, world championship gold in 2007, and silver medals at the 2008, 2009, 2011 and 2013 world championships. The Sherbrooke, Que., native is a graduate of Canada’s under-22 program as well, serving as team captain in 2006-07 and helping Canada win gold at the Air Canada Cup in Germany in 2005 and 2007.  

“I want to take this opportunity to thank all those that helped me reach my dream of playing hockey for my country,” said Vaillancourt. “There have been many coaches who have helped me grow as a player over the years, from the first days I laced up a pair a skates to playing for Team Canada at the Olympics and world championship. Thanks as well to my family, my friends, the trainers, support staff members, and all the great teammates that I have had the honour of playing beside over the years. It has been a great pleasure and honour to count you as teammates and friends.

“While it was difficult for me to come to this decision to retire, I know that there are great challenges and opportunities ahead for me. I would also to thank those that helped me get back on the ice after my injury: Dr. Mulder, who operated on me twice, Dr. Tanzer and Amy Rogerson, my physiotherapist, who helped me get back on skates.”