Born East Fremantle, W.A.
3 October, 1966
Michelle had a long and decorated career as a midfielder in National and International competition. She represented Western Australia over a thirteen year period between 1983 and 1996. She also played for Queensland at senior level during that time. Her international career spanned eight years between 1985 and 1992, during which time she made 130 appearances for Australia. This record included two Olympic Games, two World Cups and three Champions Trophy tournaments.
The highlight of Michelle’s career was the winning of a gold medal at the Seoul Olympics in 1988 where her play was consistently outstanding in a team which faced strong challenges from fancied European rivals. Michelle also played with distinction in the 1992 Olympic Games in Barcelona where Australia finished fifth.
Part of another successful hockey family, Michelle’s mother June Capes, aunt Shirley Tonkin and sister Lee Capes, all represented Western Australia and Australia with distinction.
Michelle was a very accomplished athlete whose game was characterized by a wonderful big match temperament. She was deceptively quick, tackled skilfully and determinedly and always read the play expertly.
Michelle continued her career at the top level in domestic competition in Western Australia until 2006 where she mentored many promising young players who went on to achieve high levels of performance.