Sam Quek is one of the most recognizable names in British sport and television. Her career, which began on the hockey fields, transitioned seamlessly into broadcasting, where she has become a versatile and influential figure. From Olympic gold medals to presenting major TV shows, Sam’s story is one of dedication, reinvention, and empowerment.
Early Life and Education
Born on October 18, 1988, in Liverpool, England, Sam Quek showed early signs of athleticism and determination. Growing up in a family with mixed heritage (her mother is English, and her father is of Singaporean-Chinese descent), Sam was encouraged to pursue her passions. She attended Hillside Primary School and later Birkenhead High School before moving on to Calday Grange Grammar School for her secondary education.
Sam’s love for sports began early, and she quickly made a name for herself in field hockey. She continued her education at Leeds Metropolitan University, where she earned a BSc (Hons) in Sport & Exercise Science, while also pursuing her passion for hockey. It was during these years that Sam’s talent truly began to shine, and her future in the sport became clear.
Sam Quek The Hockey Career: Achieving Greatness
Sam’s journey in field hockey began in her early teens, but it was her progression through national teams that would lead to her place in history. Playing as a defender, Sam earned her first cap for Great Britain in 2007, and soon after, she became a key member of the England women’s hockey team. Over the years, she accumulated over 125 international caps for both England and Great Britain.
Major Achievements:
- 2016 Rio Olympics: Sam’s crowning achievement came at the 2016 Summer Olympics in Rio de Janeiro, where she was part of the Great Britain women’s hockey team that won gold. This victory was monumental — not just for Sam but for British women’s sport as a whole, as it marked the first-ever Olympic gold medal for GB women’s hockey.
- European Championships & Commonwealth Games: Sam also earned silver medals at the 2013 European Championships and the 2014 Commonwealth Games, showcasing her consistency and leadership in major tournaments.
- MBE Recognition: In 2017, Sam was awarded an MBE (Member of the Order of the British Empire) for her contributions to hockey, recognizing her outstanding achievements both on and off the field.
Sam retired from professional field hockey after the 2016 Olympics but left an indelible mark on the sport.
Transition to Media: A New Chapter
After retiring from competitive sport, Sam seamlessly transitioned into the world of broadcasting and media. With her natural charisma, knowledge of sport, and media-savvy personality, Sam quickly made a name for herself as a sports presenter and pundit. She began working for major broadcasters, covering a wide range of sports, including American football (NFL) on the BBC, rugby union on Channel 5, and field hockey on BT Sport.
Sam’s versatility didn’t stop there — she expanded her media career into mainstream entertainment. In 2016, she joined the cast of I’m a Celebrity… Get Me Out of Here!, where she finished in fourth place. Her appearance on the reality show endeared her to the public, and she became a household name.
TV & Entertainment Appearances:
- Celebrity MasterChef (2020): Sam showed off her culinary skills and came close to winning the competition.
- A Question of Sport (2021): Sam became the first permanent female team captain on this long-running BBC quiz show, further solidifying her place in British television.
- Strictly Come Dancing (2024): Sam joined the cast of Strictly Come Dancing, where she competes in the popular dance competition, showcasing her ability to adapt and thrive in new challenges.
Sam Quek Personal Life and Family
Off the screen, Sam Quek enjoys a happy and fulfilling family life. She married Tom Mairs, a property entrepreneur, in 2018, and the couple has two children: a daughter, Molly Doris Mairs, born in 2021, and a son, Isaac Gregory Mairs, born in 2022.
Sam has often spoken about the challenges of balancing motherhood with her busy career, and her transparency in sharing her experiences resonates with many women who juggle work and family. She has become an advocate for women’s rights, especially in the realm of gender equality in sport, and is a proud voice for diversity in the media.
Sam Quek Impact and Achievements
Sam Quek’s impact goes beyond her athletic accomplishments. Her career in broadcasting has helped elevate women’s sport in the UK, and her advocacy for gender equality and women’s rights in the workplace is an inspiration to many.
Key Contributions:
- Raising the profile of women’s hockey: By achieving Olympic gold and being a vocal advocate for the sport, Sam has helped bring field hockey into the limelight, inspiring young girls to pursue sports.
- Role model for athletes: Her seamless transition from an elite athlete to a successful broadcaster is a testament to the versatility and resilience needed to succeed in multiple fields.
- Advocacy for women’s rights: Through her personal experiences and public platforms, Sam has championed issues such as equal pay, representation in media, and access to sports for women.
Sam’s journey is a powerful reminder that careers in sport don’t have to end when athletes retire. Her continued success in the media and her impact on social causes are proof that her influence extends far beyond the hockey field.
Conclusion
From winning Olympic gold to becoming a media personality and advocate for women’s rights, Sam Quek has proven time and again that success is about more than just athleticism. Her career is a blueprint for how athletes can successfully transition into new roles, how women can lead in male-dominated industries, and how personal passion can drive professional success.
Sam’s achievements, both on and off the field, have cemented her as a beloved figure in British sports and television. Her legacy will inspire future generations of athletes, broadcasters, and advocates who strive to make a difference.