Messages of congratulations and praise came pouring in to Dutch hockey player Maartje Paumen today after she was voted best woman hockey player in the world on Thursday. Paumen is in the Argentinian city of Rosario with the Dutch team for the Champions Trophy.

The Netherlands, Argentina, Great Britain and Germany booked their spots in the last four of the Champions Trophy in Rosario on Thursday.

The Netherlands, intent on retaining their crown from a year ago in Amsterdam, signalled their title credentials with a commanding 3-0 victory over New Zealand.

Really touched

Paumen – who’s renowned for her penalty corners – was visibly emotional at the ceremony in the Estadio Mundialista stadium.

“Yes, it really touched me,” the 26-year-old captain admitted on Friday. “I was honoured to receive this award while my teammates and coach were present. We’ve been working hard for a couple of years now towards London 2012. My personal success will have a knock on effect on the rest of the team.”

The Dutch hockey champion said she woke up in a blissful state on Friday morning.