By Megan Armitage

Team GB hockey star Izzy Petter is breathing in the Olympic atmosphere as she embarks upon her second Games at Paris 2024.

The 24-year-old from Guilford was part of the women's hockey squad that won bronze for Team GB at Tokyo 2020 with a dramatic 4-3 win over India.

Just one of thousands of Olympians who had their first Games severely impacted by the Covid pandemic, Petter is excited to make the most of the Team GB atmosphere and Olympic Village experience this time around.

And it all starts with swapping pin badges and making new friends.

"These last few days have just felt like Christmas," she said.

"Pin swapping is a really nice way to introduce yourself to other people. You may never speak to them again but it's a good way to learn about new sports.

"I asked about five people at dinner the first evening for a pin.

"It lets you feel like you're part of something bigger. We might be a team sport but being part of Team GB is just completely different and new.

"I met a Fijian rower the other day and a lot of seven players so far, but I know people are already looking out for Carlos Alcaraz and Andy Murray."

Another change for Petter will see her family finally able to watch her compete at an Olympic Games, after being unable to join her in Tokyo due to global restrictions.

And Petter revealed that her family were so excited for the opportunity to see her compete, they booked their accommodation three years ahead of time.

"Three years ago my dad told me that he'd already booked accommodation even though I hadn't been picked yet," she added.

"It will be really special to have them there as in Tokyo there weren't any crowds.

"My mum has invited all her friends out and my boyfriend and his family are coming as well.

"I hope I can spot them in the crowd as they've all contributed so much to my career."

Team GB women play their first pool game against Spain on Sunday 28th August before tackling Australia, Argentina, United States and South Africa.

In the lead up to Paris 2024, Petter has moved from her usual position of striker and back into the midfield as part of a new team attacking strategy.

It's a role that Petter knows well, having played midfield at club level for Surbiton, and one that she's excited to dig her teeth into in Paris.

"We don't get to play the likes of South Africa, Argentina or Australia that often so it's quite cool to play different teams," she said.

"My position change was a bit of a shock but I've played there before at club level and when I was younger so I can play both.

"I'm excited to get on the ball more and get more involved that when you're up front."

Great Britain invites you to Summer of Hockey - an experience like no other. Get involved now https://www.greatbritainhockey.co.uk/olympics/paris-2024/paris-2024-fixtures