Sport Wales has appointed former Welsh hockey captain Sarah Powell as its first female chief executive officer.

Since retiring from elite sport, Powell's roles in sport administration have included a directorship of the 2010 Ryder Cup organising team. More recently, she has been working as the corporate director at Sport Wales.

Commenting on her appointment, Powell said: "Recent sporting successes show that our great sporting nation has the potential to be a leading light in the world, not just in terms of international success and medals won, but in terms of the life opportunities we can offer to every one of our children. I'm incredibly proud to have been entrusted with this responsibility."

Chair of Sport Wales, professor Laura McAllister, added: "Sarah was the outstanding candidate from an impressive and strong international field of candidates.

"She has a depth of knowledge and expertise, and a strong reputation in sport on the UK and international stages, as well as in Wales.

"Her energy, passion and vision impressed us, alongside her understanding of all aspects of sport and physical activity. I'm convinced that she will drive even greater success for sport in Wales and Sport Wales, in the coming years."