Heather Hefner has been named as the new head coach for the Kent State Field Hockey program, marking the eighth coach in the program’s history. This announcement comes after Kent State parted ways with its previous coach in February. Hefner brings a wealth of experience to the role, having been involved in collegiate field hockey for over a decade.
As a former athlete, Hefner played as a defender for four years at Wake Forest University, where she won an Atlantic Coast Conference championship. Her leadership and passion for the sport were recognized when she was named co-captain and awarded Wake Forest’s Maria Whitehead Award. Following her playing career, Hefner transitioned into coaching, serving as an assistant coach at Liberty University for six seasons.
During her time at Liberty, Hefner helped the Flames achieve significant milestones, including making it to the 2021 NCAA title game and winning three Big East regular season titles. With a successful coaching record, including a 17-3 season at Liberty, Hefner is eager to bring her knowledge and experience to Kent State.
One of Hefner’s strengths lies in her defensive coaching abilities. She has coached two Big East Defenders of the Year and a Goaltender of the Year, showcasing her expertise in building strong defensive units. Hefner’s emphasis on defense is evident in her coaching philosophy, as she instills a sense of pride and determination in her players to protect their goal.
The Flashes had a solid season last year, finishing with an 8-11 record and placing third in the Mid-American Conference. However, they fell short in the conference title game against Miami University of Ohio. With Hefner at the helm, Kent State is looking to build on their successes and compete at a higher level in the upcoming season.
Joining Hefner on the coaching staff is Lizzie Hamlett, who was named as an assistant coach for the field hockey program. Hefner speaks highly of Hamlett, praising her leadership qualities and dedication to the sport. The collaboration between the two coaches is expected to bring a new level of expertise and mentorship to the team.
Beyond her coaching responsibilities, Hefner is committed to developing well-rounded student-athletes. She emphasizes the importance of academic success and personal growth, recognizing that field hockey is just one aspect of a player’s life. Hefner’s holistic approach to coaching reflects her dedication to nurturing the overall well-being of her players.
As she embarks on her first head coaching opportunity at Kent State, Hefner is excited to embrace the legacy and tradition of the program. She is grateful for the support she has received and looks forward to making a positive impact on the team. With her experience, passion, and dedication, Heather Hefner is poised to lead the Kent State Field Hockey program to new heights.