Born: 1950 (Umtali, now Mutare)
Died: 2018 (location unknown)
Biography:
Elizabeth Muriel Chase, better known as Liz Chase, was a prominent Zimbabwean field hockey player who made a significant impact on the sport. Born on April 26, 1950, in Umtali (now Mutare), she went on to become a key member of the Zimbabwean national hockey team and represented her country with great pride and distinction.
Chase’s interest in field hockey began during her school years at Girls High School in Salisbury (now Harare) where she demonstrated immense talent and potential. In 1966, she was selected to represent the national schools field hockey team, marking the beginning of her illustrious career. Shortly after, she also joined the national under-21 team, where she honed her skills and further showcased her capabilities.
To pursue higher education and her passion for physical education, Chase made her way to South Africa. There, she attended university to obtain a degree in physical education. During this time, Chase continued to excel in field hockey, representing various teams including the university varsity team as well as the local provincial sides of Wits and Southern Transvaal.
In 1973/74, she received an incredible opportunity when she was chosen to play for the South Africa B team, further solidifying her reputation as a formidable player. Two years later, in 1976/77, Chase represented the Springbok Ladies hockey team, marking another significant milestone in her career.
Throughout the 1970s, Chase faced personal hardships, losing friends and family members in the Rhodesian Bush War. Despite these challenges, she remained resilient and focused on her passion for field hockey. Upon her return to Rhodesia, she played for the Old Hararians club and also dedicated her time to teaching physical education at Oriel Girls High School in Salisbury.
Chase’s commitment and exceptional skills led to her selection every year for the Zimbabwe women’s national team. Her contributions to the team were invaluable, and she played an instrumental role in their success on the international stage. Notably, Chase was part of the Zimbabwean national team that clinched the gold medal at the 1980 Summer Olympics held in Moscow, a historic achievement for the country.
After emigrating to South Africa in the early 1980s, Chase continued to contribute to the field of physical education. She joined the University of the Witwatersrand as the head of the physical education department in 2000, where she shared her expertise and nurtured aspiring athletes for many years. Chase dedicated her life to promoting and advancing the importance of physical education, leaving an indelible impact on countless individuals.
Tragically, Liz Chase’s life was cut short by cancer on May 9, 2018, just two weeks after celebrating her 68th birthday. Her legacy as a phenomenal athlete, passionate educator, and role model lives on, inspiring future generations of female field hockey players.
Awards:
– Gold Medal, 1980 Summer Olympics in Moscow