Natasha KELLER (Germany)

Natascha Keller - Germany 
Date of Birth:  3 July 1977 (31)
Position: Forward

The undoubted star of the Germany team is also a member of the most illustrious hockey family in the history of German hockey, with grandfather, father and brother all having claimed Olympic hockey medals. Edwin Keller, Natasha’s grandfather, won silver at the 1936 Berlin Olympics, with father Carsten collecting Gold at Munich in 1972 and elder brother Andreas also winning Gold at Barcelona in 1992.

However, Natascha Keller is far from overshadowed by the achievements of her family members. An immensely gifted attacker, she is blessed with breathtaking skills and an ability to score from the tightest of angles. She was rightly named as FIH World Player of the Year in 1999, and is still the most unpredictable and inspirational member of the Germany team.

Four years ago she added her own piece of gold to the family riches, guiding her country to Olympic success with victory over The Netherlands 2-1. She now has over 300 combined indoor and outdoor international appearances for Germany under her belt – an quite staggering achievement.

FACT: Natasha’s younger brother could become the fifth Olympic hockey medallist in her family. Florian Keller is a central figure for Germany men, considered by many as one of the favourites for Gold here in Beijing.