Megan Callahan Set to Represent Team USA in Rotterdam

BALTIMORE, MD – Head field hockey coach, Megan Callahan, continues to demonstrate her passion and skill in the sport, having been chosen to represent the USA Masters field hockey team in the Netherlands this summer.

After graduating from the University of Maryland, Callahan remained active in the sport, competing in the adult club circuit and gaining experience in both indoor and outdoor tournaments throughout the year. Those experiences led to an opportunity to try out for the USA Masters program in 2014.

"When the chance to try out for the Masters team came along in 2014, it seemed like a great opportunity to stay in the game, continue to compete at a high level, and represent the USA on the world stage," said Callahan.

Now more than a decade into her tenure with the program, Callahan's commitment to the team has only deepened.

"I'm truly honored to represent my age group.  Honestly, I tell people I'm still playing, and most are genuinely surprised," said Callahan. "It's a lot of work to prepare your body to compete in a 10-day tournament.  But I am super proud of the fact that I am still competing in the sport I love."

The masters field hockey community is unique in that it is made up of an extremely diverse group of people. Ranging from former collegiate athletes to current parents and grandparents. Despite those differences, everyone is brought together with the "deep love for our sport," said Callahan.

This diversity has also shaped the way Callahan approaches competition. Valuing knowledge and perspective over pure athleticism.

"In hockey, we often say 'make the ball do the work,' " Callahan said. "As a master's athlete, that has never more true. Your body doesn't move the way it used to, but your mind knows exactly what to do."

These lessons continue to impact Callahan's work as a collegiate coach.

"I'm a big communicator," said Callahan. "My experience analyzing and breaking down a game in real time is helpful in anticipating what our opponent is doing and how to counterattack."

Beyond strategy, the most important lesson Callahan carries is having relationships and trusting one another. In her eyes, both stem from positive and active communication. When asked about the experience, she stated, "To be put back in the role of a student-athlete gives you tremendous perspective and empathy when you are working with your student-athletes."

Among the many memories with USA Masters, Callahan counts the indoor team's bronze medal finish as a personal milestone, marking the first of her masters career. Yet, this upcoming tour becomes the most meaningful.

"This will be the first tour that I will take my kids along," Callahan said. "They are 15 and 16, and this will be the first time they will see me play. I'm super excited to have them as part of my support system in Rotterdam.

For Callahan, the masters competition represents far more than medals and travel. It serves as a reminder that athletic participation can continue after college.

"There are so many pathways to staying connected to your sport.  Whether it is coaching youth teams, participating in adult playing opportunities, or even becoming involved with officiating, all of these aspects are vital to any sport. You should find the connection that works best for you, and that gives you the most joy," said Callahan.