Rob Harwood retires from international hockey

After 55 caps and 16 goals Scottish international Rob Harwood has announced his retirement from international hockey—Rob represented Scotland at several international tournaments including two Commonwealth Games with Team Scotland.

Harwood steps away with a shift in priorities as he looks to focus on his professional career. For a player who has always given his all, the decision reflects the same commitment that shaped his time in a Scotland shirt.

Harwood’s international journey began in remarkable fashion with the Gold Coast Commonwealth Games coming as his first major tournament. Still a student at University of Strathclyde, he was balancing studies with the early steps of his hockey career when an unexpected call-up changed everything.

“I knew I was in with a chance but having only played 4 games prior to selection I thought I might have missed the boat… so it was a welcome surprise,” he reflected. “When I found out I was selected, I was absolutely delighted.”

Harwood’s first cap came against USA in the final selection tournament before the Games. It was a dream start for him, scoring on his debut. It wasn’t just a goal; it remains one of the finest finishes of his career – a sublime lob after Willie Marshall spotted his surge into the circle.

Guided by then head coach Derek Forsyth and supported by senior players like Chris Grassick and Kenny Bain, Harwood found his feet quickly in the senior setup. The Gold Coast call up quickly came and the experience was an exceptional one for the young forward. Scoring the first goal of the tournament in a key win against South Africa and then against hosts and world number 1 Australia in a packed stadium are up there as career highlights. He said, “I’d never played in front of that many people before so playing Australia in front of 6000 people was unbelievable.”

Like many young athletes, Harwood’s journey wasn’t without setbacks. Following the high of the Commonwealth Games in Gold Coast, he experienced a dip in form, describing it as a difficult period. He joked, “I felt like I’d forgotten how to hold a hockey stick at times.” But rather than define him, it drove him.

He returned stronger—developing his game, embracing the expectations of what it takes to be a Scotland player, and maturing into a reliable presence within a transitioning Scotland squad. His performances in tournaments across Europe, including strong showings in Lousada and Gniezno, highlighted both his attacking instincts and growing leadership.

By the time the Birmingham Commonwealth Games arrived, Harwood was no longer the newcomer—he was a bridge between generations in a squad that had long-time experienced internationalists, and emerging young talent. He recalled, “I wasn’t one of the most senior players but I was also no longer one of the younger players, I fit in somewhere in between and enjoyed being a bit of a link between the older generation and the younger players. There were lots of good ideas in the squad and it was a strong squad. I enjoyed that aspect in helping link players together from different eras.”

He played a pivotal role in one of Scotland’s most memorable matches in Birmingham, once again scoring the opening goal of the Games in a thrilling 5-5 opener against New Zealand. In a game full of drama and momentum swings, Scotland’s performance captured the belief and energy within the squad.

“That game was mental, it’s the best game I ever played in. It really showed what we were capable of. The support we got from the stands… was amazing,” he said, reflecting on the home crowd atmosphere that made Birmingham so special.

Across his career, Harwood celebrated numerous highlights: reaching his 50th international cap; playing a role in Scotland’s highest-ever men’s finish at a Commonwealth Games; scoring key goals, including a home hat-trick in European qualifiers.

His influence extended into team culture—especially in later years, where he embraced a leadership role among emerging talent.

His return to the squad in 2025 after playing in Australia with YMCC, saw him excited by the progress of the next generation. Even as one of the more experienced players at only 27 years old, he thrived in a fresh, unified team environment.

Harwood’s final appearances came during the 2026 World Cup qualifiers, where Scotland recorded a memorable victory over France—one of the standout moments of his closing chapter.

Though qualification ultimately proved just out of reach, Harwood leaves the international stage with pride.

“I am very proud of what I have achieved, over 50 caps and two Commonwealth Games, I’m very pleased with that.” he said.

In stepping away, Harwood was quick to acknowledge those who shaped his journey. From early guidance under Derek Forsyth and Graham Moodie, to the influence of Euan Miller, Gavin Sommerville and Vishal Marwaha at Western Wildcats, his career has been built on strong mentorship and support.

He also paid tribute to his partner Liv, family, friends, teammates, University of Strathclyde, and his employer—recognising the collective effort behind every international appearance.

Scotland Men’s Interim Head Coach Neil Allan said, “Rob has been a dedicated and valued member of the Scotland Men’s National Team. Since making his scoring debut in 2018 against the USA, he has brought an unwavering work ethic, a competitive edge, and a real sense of pride every time he stepped onto the pitch. From the Commonwealth Games to the EuroHockey Championships, he has always given everything he had to the shirt.

“On a personal note, it has been a genuine pleasure to coach Rob throughout his international journey—first at U21 level and later in the Senior Men’s Squad after his return in 2024. Watching him grow not just as a player but as a person has been incredibly rewarding. He has earned every success he’s had, and he leaves the programme with the respect and admiration of everyone who has worked alongside him.

“I wish him all the best with whatever comes next, and I know he will approach it with the same dedication and work ethic that have defined his international career.”

Rob Harwood’s retirement marks the end of international hockey for him and as he turns his focus to new ambitions, everyone at Scottish Hockey would like to thank Rob for his contribution.

 

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