Gemma McCaw's hits out at hockey fan who 'ridiculed' her during her first game since giving birth

Former Black Sticks star Gemma McCaw has hit back at a fan who she says 'ridiculed' her during her return to hockey at this week's national tournament in Tauranga.

McCaw – who came out of retirement to play for Midlands in the women's National Hockey League competition - lost to Central in a penalty shootout, which meant her team missed out on the semifinals.

The tournament marked the 29-year-old's return to the game after giving birth to her daughter Charlotte with Richie McCaw late last year.

Taking to social media last night, McCaw wrote: "To the man who ridiculed me from the sideline tonight, I just want you to know I am a new mum coming back from having a baby 9 months ago."

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"I probably didn't think I would be lining up for NHL, nearly 15 years since playing my first ever tournament, but I'm here. And I'm giving it my absolute best. Sometimes sport doesn't believe in fairy tales.

"It didn't go our way tonight but I'm very proud of the way our team played with so much heart.

“A big thank you to everyone in my corner for helping me get back to play the game I love. It's because of you I get to do this."

Alongside her message, McCaw shared a picture of a quote from former US president Theodore Roosevelt titled 'The man in the arena'.

Go Gemma!