MADDIE Hinch became an overnight sensation on Friday when her goalkeeping heroics secured Team GB hockey gold.

She was fearless as she rushed out at the opposition penalty takers, saving each and every one of their attempts.

Her performance cemented her reputation as the finest goalkeeper in the world.

It is estimated more than nine million people tuned in to watch the match.

But what those nine million don't see was the thousands of hours of training.

The early mornings in the gym, the brutal weights sessions and fitness tests.

Maddie's hockey gold was not won in the sunshine of Rio but the cold, rain-sodden pitches of southern England.

Speaking after the final she told how she almost gave up on her Olympic dream after not making the London 2012 squad.

But she is testament to what you can achieve if you believe in yourself, work hard and are dedicated to the cause.

Her performance on Friday evening also showed the importance of preparation.

Maddie had done her homework on each and every one of the Netherlands players.

Having collected data over many years, she knew which way they were likely to go in a shootout when under pressure.

We can all learn lessons from what Maddie achieved on Friday night.

Not only when playing sport but in our professional and private lives.

Maddie along with the rest of the GB girls, including East Grinstead's Laura Unsworth and Sophie Bray, have also helped inspire a new generation of hockey players.

Clubs up and down the country have reported a spike in interest in recent days.

That is something to be very proud of.

Well done Maddie and all of Team GB.