If you have a genuine love for the game and want to pursue your passion then why not consider going to college to do so? Field hockey is one of the most popular sports at the college level and you can study the game and its history in some of the most reputable institutions in the country. Here is a list of the best colleges that offer field hockey scholarships so you can fund your studies and participate in hockey competitions without worrying about paying for your tuition fees.
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Duke University
Duke University is one of the most established institutions of higher learning in the country and is the alma mater of many prominent Americans. The university established its field hockey team in 1903 and although it is not one of the most competitive teams in the country, it consistently competes for national titles throughout its history. While at Duke, you will not only be playing hockey, but you will also be able to participate in other sports like lacrosse and boxing. Moreover, you will be able to socialize with other students and make lifelong friends.
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
Chapel Hill is the largest city in North Carolina and is the home of the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. The town was previously known as “Cowan” and this college was originally established as a Presbyterian school before becoming secular in the late 1940s. Since its founding in 1965, the university has expanded its sporting facilities and added several new teams and sports. Amongst these are field hockey, football, and baseball. The school’s team page on their website lists several hockey scholarships available for students interested in playing at the collegiate level.
University of Wisconsin–Madison
The University of Wisconsin–Madison is the flagship university of the system and was established in 1848. The university is particularly well-known for its hockey program which has won two NCAA titles in addition to producing several NHL players. The hockey program at UW–Madison was actually started in the 1920s but did not become a varsity team until the 1950s. The university has since then become a dominant force in the sport, producing 34 All-Americans and sending 23 players to the NHL. Moreover, students at the university can participate in other sports like football, basketball, and baseball, while also being able to socialize with other students through various school events. However, if hockey is your true passion then you should consider applying to play in the NCAA. Even if you don’t end up playing hockey, attending the university will definitely give you an advantage when applying for jobs in the field.
Ohio State University
Ohio State University is another well-established school located in the Midwest that began its hockey program in 1896. The team’s colors are red and black and over the years it has developed a fierce rivalry with its fellow Midwestern school, Michigan. Both universities have a very competitive hockey program and over the years have sent players to the NHL. In fact, several alumni from each school have gone on to play for the Stanley Cup-winning Chicago Blackhawks. It is also worth noting that while at Ohio State, you can study business management, exercise science, and even get a minor in sports management.
Penn State University
Penn State University is probably the best all-around college that offers field hockey scholarships. The university was founded in 1846 and is one of the most respected institutions in the country. Not only can students study business administration, but they can even earn a minor in business marketing with a specialization in sports management or business finance. Moreover, students have the opportunity to participate in several sports and teams at Penn State. However, if you are looking for a specifically hockey-related field of study then you should look into Penn State’s College of Engineering where you can study mechanical engineering and earn an specialization in biomechanics. Not only will this make you better prepared for the workforce, but it will also give you an advantage when applying for scholarships specifically associated with the sport.
Miami University
Miami University is a private school located in the Midwest founded in 1839. One of the most prominent features of this university is its spectacular hockey arena, the Derickson Ice Sports Center. This is the world’s third-largest ice arena and is one of the most popular sports venues in the country. In fact, the arena has hosted the National Hockey League’s All-Star Game on numerous occasions, most recently in 2007. In addition to hockey, students at Miami can also participate in football, lacrosse, and basketball, among other sports. Moreover, Miami University has a very active and thriving social scene, holding numerous events throughout the year, including parties, game nights, and concerts. If you are looking for a school with a great atmosphere and an even greater hockey tradition then look no further than Miami.
Rutgers University
Rutgers University is another great school located in New Jersey that has a very competitive hockey program. The team’s colors are orange and black and they have a rivalry with Manhattan College, their neighboring school in the Bronx. Students at Rutgers have several opportunities to get involved in their school’s hockey program. Not only can they participate in intramural games throughout the year, but they can also play in a tournament hosted by their college’s alumni association. It should be noted that while at Rutgers, you can also study business administration, exercise science, and even get a minor in sports management. Moreover, the university encourages its students to get involved in community service and has awarded several fellowships, including the Gates Cambridge Bursary, to students who have made a substantial contribution to society through their studies.
Vanderbilt University
Vanderbilt University is an Ivy League school located in the South that prides itself on its academics and athletic program. The university’s athletic program has expanded significantly in the past few years and now includes teams in several sports, including football, basketball, and tennis. However, the most prominent and exciting sport at Vanderbilt is field hockey. The team’s colors are gray and orange, and they have won two national championships in addition to several other prestigious titles over the years. Not only does Vanderbilt have a great hockey tradition, but it also has a very competitive program with an NCAA record for most goals scored in a single game. While at Vanderbilt, you can study business administration, get a minor in sports management, and even get a certificate in sports marketing.
University of Chicago
The University of Chicago is one of the most prominent and oldest universities in the country. It was founded in 1858 and is consistently ranked amongst the top 10 universities in the country. One of the reasons for U of Chicago’s excellence is its incredible athletic facilities. The school currently has 12 varsity sports teams and offers students the opportunity to participate in various intercollegiate sporting events. However, if you are interested in hockey then you should consider U of Chicago’s College of Engineering, where you can study mechanical engineering and even get a specialization in biomechanics. Not only will this make you better prepared for the job market, but it will also give you an advantage when applying for scholarships specifically associated with the sport.
Virginia Tech
Virginia Tech is another excellent university that offers a variety of scholarships for students interested in hockey. The university has a very competitive team which has been consistently ranked amongst the top 3 teams in the country. Similarly, Virginia Tech’s athletic facilities are some of the best in the country and it regularly participates in NCAA-level competitions. Moreover, while at Virginia Tech, you can study business administration, exercise science, and even get a minor in sports management. Not only can students get involved in their school’s hockey program, but they can also participate in other sports like football, basketball, and baseball, while being able to socialize with other students through various school events. However, if you have a genuine love for the game and want to pursue your passion then why not consider going to college to do so?