Black Sticks live wire and Northlander Stacey Michelsen is one of five players shortlisted by the International Hockey Federation (FIH) for Women's Player of the Year.
Michelsen, who has played 216 tests for New Zealand, had a stunning year at events such as the Hawke's Bay Cup and Rio Olympic Games.
"It is a huge honour to be nominated, particularly alongside the other nominees who I have a great amount of respect for as players," Michelsen said.
"It's been a very tough year with the disappointment of not achieving what we set out to in Rio, but it has certainly motivated many of us to be better in the coming years.
"I am very much looking forward to the chance to play in the Word League tournaments in 2017, especially the final which will be hosted in Auckland.