TORONTO, ONTARIO - Veteran defenceman Geraldine Heaney formally announced her retirement from Canada's National Women's Hockey Team on Monday, the Canadian Hockey Association announced.

Heaney, 34, had indicated in February 2002 after Canada's win in Salt Lake City, that it was probably her last game and confirmed it earlier this week to CHA president Bob Nicholson.

The native of Belfast, Ireland, who was raised in Weston, ON puts an end to a stellar international career, that included one Olympic gold medal, one Olympic silver medal and a record seven World Championships.

Heaney has played the most games all-time (125) with Canada's National Women's Hockey Team, and leads all defencemen with 27 goals, 66 assists and 93 points. She is also the 5th top scorer of all-time, behind only Hayley Wickenheiser (164), Danielle Goyette (154), Nancy Drolet (112) and Jayna Hefford (95)

"Geraldine has been a pioneer for women's hockey in Canada," said Bob Nicholson, the CHA's president. "Her dedication to Canada's women's hockey program over the past 13 years has established a standard of excellence to which young players can aspire for years to come."

Heaney will continue to play senior AAA hockey with the Beatrice Aeros in North York, Ontario, her club team since she was 13 years old.

"It has been a tremendous thirteen years, full of great memories that will stay with me for the rest of my life," said Geraldine Heaney. "Anytime you get to represent your country on the international stage, it's an incredible feeling."

Heaney and all the members of Canada's gold medal winning National Women's Team were in Toronto on Monday for a celebration of the team's win in Salt Lake City, highlighted by a pep rally organized by Molson and a ring ceremonies at the Hockey Hall of Fame.

The players and staff will be receiving their gold medal rings during a private ceremony at the Hockey Hall of Fame. TSN will broadcast the ceremony live during "Rings of Gold", which will be seen across the country at 7 pm (Eastern).