I look at myself, and how much I've gotten just because I play a sport well.

As a veteran, you're a little more poised on that mental side. But athletically, I didn't really think I could get better.

It's not about, 'Let me play as long as I can so I don't have to grow up.' It's about, 'Let me play as long as I enjoy it,' and when it's time to step away, I can step away gracefully even if I'm still good enough to keep playing, because I'm ready for that next phase.

I'm in the perfect position. It's a sports position and a political position where I can help better the lives of athletes around the world.

In a way, by being fully committed to the Olympic movement globally, I'm better able to promote women's hockey and talk about women's hockey and put a face to women's hockey, to all the IOC members.

It feels right. But it's emotional. Saying goodbye to anything you've done that long is hard.

I'm able to give a voice to the athletes around the world - use my degree for something other than the power play.