Picture this: competing at the highest level of collegiate field hockey amid incredible training facilities while earning a top-tier education, all within the vibrant and diverse culture of the United States. This isn't just a fantasy – it's a tangible reality for ambitious field hockey players, thanks to the incredible opportunities of US college field hockey scholarships.
With a proven track record of guiding talented individuals across the Atlantic to some of the best field hockey programs in the country, FirstPoint USA, can help you unlock these life-changing experiences. Let's delve into starting the journey of making your American field hockey dream a reality.
Hear from Michigan State University head coach for field hockey Helen Knull, who joined us on a recent webinar
What Level of Player Do You Need to Be?
To be considered for a field hockey scholarship in the US, coaches look for a combination of athletic prowess and academic potential.
- For NCAA DI and top DII programs, you'll typically need to be playing at a high club or regional level in the UK/Ireland. Players with national or junior international experience are highly sought after and are more likely to secure significant scholarships. You should possess exceptional technical skills, advanced tactical awareness, and a high level of fitness.
- For DII, DIII, and NAIA programs, players competing at a good club or county level in the UK/Ireland could be a great fit. While the most substantial scholarships might be for elite players, there are many opportunities for talented individuals who are dedicated to improving their game and want to compete at a high level.
Crucially, academics are as important as athletics. All NCAA and NAIA divisions have academic eligibility requirements, including minimum GPA and often standardised test scores (SAT/ACT). A strong academic record not only makes you eligible but also significantly enhances your appeal to coaches, as it can open doors to additional academic scholarships, making your US college experience even more accessible.
Who are the leading programs?
The US collegiate system is home to a multitude of outstanding field hockey programs. Identifying the right fit depends on your academic profile, athletic ability, and personal preferences. Here's a look at some of the consistently strong contenders across the divisions:
NCAA Division 1 Powerhouses: The most successful team in the country is the University of North Carolina, with the ‘Tar Heels’ landing the national title eleven titles. In addition, UNC has finished national runner-up an NCAA record eleven times. They are closely followed by Old Dominion University who have nine national championships to their name, with Maryland (eight), UConn (five) and Wake Forrest (three) occupying the next spots with eight. Northwestern are the reigning champions, and currently the No.1 ranked program in the country.
Ivy League schools have a strong tradition of developing powerhouse programs and Harvard currently leads the way at No.5 in the States, with Princeton – home to two FirstPoint athletes in Anna Faulstich and Ava Dempsy – the current Ivy League Championship holders.
Other perennial contenders include the University of Michigan (Wolverines) and Penn State University (Nittany Lions), both formidable forces in the highly competitive Big Ten Conference.
NCAA Division II Success: FirstPoint alum Millie Forster was part of the Saint Anselm College field hockey team who recently secured the program’s first ever NCAA DII National Championship in 2024. The Hawks defeated Kutztown 1-0 in the final with a dramatic overtime winner, with Millie assisting with the winning goal. Their victory was all the more impressive having defeated three higher seeded opponents en route to the championship.
It was Saint Anselm College Athletics’ first ever National Championship in any sport, and to cap her success, Millie was also named on the National Championship’s All-Tournament team. Prior to securing her field hockey scholarship, Mille attended Ellesmere College in England, and was part of the England Hockey Performance Pathway, trialling for the England National U18s team.
NCAA Division III Excellence: Among the DIII ranks, Middlebury College, Tufts University, Salisbury University, and MIT stand out. These schools are renowned for both their academic excellence and their successful field hockey programs, consistently making deep runs in national tournaments, while providing student-athletes with prestigious qualifications.
NAIA Programs: While the NAIA field hockey landscape is smaller, schools such as Siena Heights University and Northwestern College offer fantastic opportunities for competitive play and a strong student-athlete experience.
Playing Yourself into Position for Recruitment Success
So, you've got the talent and the grades – how do you get noticed by US college coaches?
- Start Early: The recruitment process can begin as early as age 15 or 16. Direct communication between players and NCAA coaches can take place from June of the GCSE year
- Craft a Compelling Profile: Create an online athletic profile that comprehensively showcases your stats, achievements, academic transcripts, and, critically, a high-quality highlight video. This video is your visual CV, demonstrating your skills effectively in game situations.
- Proactive Engagement: Reach out to college coaches directly via email, expressing your genuine interest in their specific program. Personalise your messages and follow up consistently to stand out.
- Partner with Recruitment Experts: This is where FirstPoint USA truly makes a difference. We possess an in-depth understanding of the US college system and have cultivated extensive relationships with coaches across the country. We can help you identify suitable programs, refine your profile, facilitate effective communication with coaches, and expertly navigate the complex eligibility and scholarship processes.
From Collegiate Star to International Stage
Many international players have honed their skills in the States before ascending to achieve great success on the international stage. A shining example is FirstPoint alum Ayeisha McFerran, an Irish international goalkeeper now playing professionally in the Netherlands. She was a standout player at the University of Louisville, earning multiple All-American honours during her collegiate career, before becoming a crucial member of the Irish national team that famously reached the 2018 World Cup final. Her journey powerfully illustrates the high-performance environment and outstanding development opportunities available through US college sports.
A FirstPoint Athlete's Inspiring Journey
Zimbabwean field hockey star Rumbi Zimuto made the move from Chisipite Senior School in her home country to NCAA DI LaSalle University in Philadelphia and has savoured her freshman year, starting all 19 games. Rumbi worked with FirstPoint USA to secure her place and spoke of her time in the States:
“So far, the experience has been both amazing and challenging. My teammates, their families, and our coaches have been incredibly supportive, making my transition smooth. However, being a student-athlete requires hard work, but in the end, it's absolutely worth it.
If you’re considering this path, be honest about your situation and ask questions based on your circumstances—the worst that could happen is hearing "no." The opportunities are out there!”
Global Talent: Where Do Most International Field Hockey Players Come From?
The Netherlands sends the highest number of field hockey players to the States, while the United Kingdom ranks second on the list of countries with collegiate players. Canda, Germany, South Africa and Australia all contribute to the diverse pool of international talent in American collegiate field hockey.
Ready to Chase Your American Dream?
A field hockey scholarship in the United States offers an unparalleled combination of academic excellence, elite athletic development, and profound cultural immersion. If you are a dedicated and talented field hockey player from the UK or Ireland, this could be your moment to shine on a global platform.
Don't let this incredible opportunity pass you by. Connect with FirstPoint USA today to register your interest. Let us help you embark on your exciting journey to a US college field hockey scholarship – your future awaits!
