Remembering Judi Rice

Field Hockey Nova Scotia is deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Judi Rice on August 26, 2026, after a brief illness.

A life member of FHNS, Judi’s accomplishments and contributions to field hockey were many and varied. 

Judi played on several provincial field hockey teams and was a proud member of the Nova Scotia team that was crowned National Senior Champions in 1975. Ultimately, this team was inducted into the Nova Scotia Sport Hall of Fame in 1995. Judi was selected to the Canadian National Senior Women’s Field Hockey Team. She was the youngest team member and the first Nova Scotian player named to the team.

She was a standout athlete at Dalhousie University.  As captain and MVP, she led her teammates to Atlantic University Championship wins in both field hockey and basketball.

After the conclusion of her playing career, Judi gave back to the sport that she loved by umpiring at the university level and coaching provincial teams, including the 1989 Canada Games Team. She served on the Field Hockey Nova Scotia Executive and was Technical Director at several regional and national tournaments. She also volunteered on the Nancy Tokaryk Memorial Golf Tournament and Scholarship Committee for 13 years, until 2026. 

In later years, she could be found at the pitch or in the gym, cheering on her great-nieces. 

Field Hockey Nova Scotia is grateful for Judi’s outstanding contributions to our sport. She was well respected, both locally and nationally, and was known for her spirit, mentorship, and support of women in sport. She will be greatly missed.

At this time, we extend our sincerest condolences to Judi’s family and friends.