Field hockey coach Erin Matson describes her Olympic visit as ‚empowering‘

Erin Matson, the 24-year-old head coach of the North Carolina field hockey team, recently had the opportunity to attend the Paris Olympics where she had the chance to learn from and be inspired by some of the greatest athletes and coaching minds in the world. Matson, a Chadds Ford native and graduate of Unionville High School, expressed how empowering and enlightening the experience was for her. She was able to connect with athletes and coaches from various sports and countries, all working towards their own goals and making a difference in their respective fields.

One of the key takeaways for Matson from her time at the Olympics was the importance of representation and advocacy for women in sports. She admires the work of women like Dawn Staley and Megan Rapinoe who have used their platforms to push for equal opportunities and recognition in their sports. Matson sees herself as a voice for college field hockey and hopes to continue advocating for the advancement of women in sports.

During her time in Paris, Matson also had the opportunity to network and learn from industry professionals, including her agent Dan Levy, who represents a number of female athletes such as Rapinoe, Alex Morgan, and Katie Ledecky. Matson felt comfortable working with Levy, knowing that he understood the unique challenges and opportunities that come with being a female athlete and coach. She sees her partnership with Levy as a way to further her mission of inspiring the next generation of athletes and setting them up for success.

Despite the disappointment of the U.S. women’s field hockey team not advancing past pool play at the Olympics, Matson remains hopeful and determined to make a difference in the sport. She had hoped to compete for a spot on the Olympic team but was deemed ineligible to try out. However, she is keeping her sights set on the 2028 Los Angeles Games and is excited for the future of field hockey in the U.S.

Now back in training camp with the Tar Heels, Matson is focused on preparing her team for the upcoming season. She is proud of the hard work and dedication her players have shown and is confident that they will have another successful year. With a roster that includes standout players like Ryleigh Heck, Matson is excited to see what her team can achieve and is looking forward to the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.

In conclusion, Erin Matson’s experience at the Paris Olympics was not only a valuable learning opportunity but also a source of inspiration and motivation for her continued advocacy for women in sports. As a young coach with a passion for field hockey, Matson is determined to make a difference and help shape the future of the sport for generations to come.