How do I Get a Field Hockey Scholarship in America?

The Process of Securing a Field Hockey Scholarship in America

Women’s field hockey is an extremely popular sport in America, with many colleges and universities offering athletic scholarships to talented players. If you’re a high school field hockey player with aspirations of playing at the college level, here are some top tips on how to increase your chances of earning a scholarship if you are looking to manage your own recruitment. If you are wanting help with this process apply now here.

1. Develop Your Skills: The first step to earning a field hockey scholarship is to become an exceptional player. Attend camps, clinics and private lessons with experienced coaches to improve your skills. Work on your stick work, speed, agility, and endurance.
2. Create a Highlight Reel: Coaches often look for highlight reels to evaluate potential scholarship recipients. Make sure to include your best plays, but also showcase your teamwork and communication skills. Your video should be no longer than 3-5 minutes, and you can upload it to a website like YouTube for easy sharing.
3. Attend Showcases and Tournaments: College coaches attend showcases and tournaments to scout for new talent. Attend these events to showcase your skills and make connections with coaches. Make sure to research the events ahead of time and plan your schedule accordingly.
4. Research Colleges and Universities: Before you start applying for scholarships, research the colleges and universities that offer field hockey scholarships. Look at the athletic programs, academic requirements, and scholarship opportunities to find the right fit for you.
5. Contact Coaches: Once you’ve identified the schools you’re interested in, reach out to the coaches of the field hockey programs. Send them your highlight reel, your academic transcripts, and a brief introduction letter. Make sure to follow up with them and stay in touch throughout the recruitment process.
6. Attend Official Visits: If you’re invited to attend an official visit, take advantage of the opportunity to meet with coaches and current players. Ask questions about the team, the school, and the scholarship opportunities. This is also a chance for coaches to evaluate your personality and character.
7. Maintain Good Grades: In addition to your athletic abilities, coaches also look for strong academic performance. Make sure to maintain good grades throughout high school and prepare for standardised tests like the SAT or ACT.

What are considered some of the best NCAA D1 field hockey programmes?

Below are some examples of American universities that offer field hockey scholarships and have strong field hockey programs that you might aspire to play at:

1. University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill: The UNC Tar Heels are consistently ranked among the top field hockey programs in the country, having won six national championships.
2. Duke University: Duke is another top-ranked field hockey program that offers scholarships to talented players. The Blue Devils have won two national championships and consistently compete in the NCAA tournament.
3. University of Maryland: The University of Maryland Terrapins have a long history of success in field hockey, with eight national championships and 23 conference championships.
4. Boston College: The Boston College Eagles have emerged as a strong program in recent years, reaching the NCAA tournament six times in the past decade.
5. University of Louisville: The Louisville Cardinals have a growing field hockey program, having reached the NCAA tournament in each of the past three seasons.
6. Syracuse University: The Syracuse Orange have a competitive field hockey program that has reached the NCAA tournament in 13 of the past 15 seasons.

Can I Play Field Hockey Professionally After Graduating?

Here are some examples of famous field hockey players who attended universities in America:

1. Lauren Crandall – University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill: Crandall is a former captain of the US women’s national field hockey team and a two-time Olympian. She played for the UNC Tar Heels from 2003-2006, where she was a two-time All-American and helped lead the team to two national championships.
2. Michelle Vittese – University of Virginia: Vittese is a former midfielder for the US women’s national field hockey team and a two-time Olympian. She played for the University of Virginia Cavaliers from 2008-2011, where she was a four-time All-American and the 2011 ACC Player of the Year.
3. Katelyn Falgowski – University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill: Falgowski is a former midfielder for the US women’s national field hockey team and a two-time Olympian. She played for the UNC Tar Heels from 2007-2010, where she was a three-time All-American and helped lead the team to two national championships.
4. Carissa Messimer – University of Maryland: Messimer is a former midfielder for the US women’s national field hockey team and a two-time Olympian. She played for the University of Maryland Terrapins from 1999-2002, where she was a two-time All-American and helped lead the team to two national championships.
5. Paige Selenski – University of Virginia: Selenski is a former forward for the US women’s national field hockey team and a two-time Olympian. She played for the University of Virginia Cavaliers from 2008-2011, where she was a four-time All-American and the 2011 ACC Offensive Player of the Year.

These are just a few examples of the many talented field hockey players who have attended universities in America. Playing at the college level can be a great stepping stone to a successful career in field hockey, as well as a valuable opportunity to earn an education and make lifelong connections.

In conclusion, earning a field hockey scholarship in America requires dedication, hard work, and persistence. By improving your skills, creating a highlight reel, attending showcases and tournaments, researching colleges, contacting coaches, attending official visits, and maintaining good grades, you can increase your chances of earning a scholarship and achieving your dream of playing at the college level. If you are wanting help with this process apply now here.