Meaghan van Duuren (nee Bradford) second from the left with her United First Grade Women's team mates following their 2005 Grand final victory

Meaghan van Duuren, or Bradders as she was known by her team mates, was by any measure an exceptional person and a talented hockey player. Meaghan began her career with the United Hockey Club traveling up from Wagga Wagga on the weekends for matches. In 2001 Meaghan moved to Canberra full-time to study a law degree at the Australian National University.

Meaghan approached her hockey with the same professionalism and dedication that she applied to her studies. This commitment was best illustrated by her disciplined approach to her rehabilitation and return to fitness following a full knee reconstruction. Meaghan gave freely of her time to assist and mentor other young goalkeepers in the club and the ACT generally.

Meaghan represented New South Wales in various underage teams while in Wagga. Coming to Canberra she continued her representative career for the ACT, in both the Under 21 and Canberra Strikers teams.

Her coaches and team mates always felt confident with Megs in the net. She was a highly reliable and consistent keeper who, despite her petite stature, managed to fill the goal far more than her opponents would have liked. New team members would shake their heads in disbelief as Meaghan went through her warm-up routine, which included doing the splits on each leg and bouncing back up to her feet in one swift movement.

All those who have played with and against her would remember with fondness the booming voice that emanated from beneath her helmet. Her calling of lines and constant encouragement was a great asset to the team. Meaghan was a popular member of any team she was a part of. She was a natural listener and had an easy-going manner. Her infectious laugh made her someone you wanted to be around.

To Casey, Meaghan's husband, to Merrin her sister, who is also a valued member of the United Hockey Club and to her family we extend our sincerest sympathy. Meaghan will be greatly missed, but never forgotten.

Details for Meaghan's funeral are as follows:

Funeral:      12.00pm
                  Friday 28 November
                  Norwood Park Crematorium,
                  Sanford St
                 MITCHELL

Wake: Kamberra Wine Company
             Federal Highway

Flowers: If you are planning on bringing flowers on the day, please don't bring gerberas - she hated them, but she loved roses.