North Carolina head coach Erin Mattson, one of the most decorated field hockey players, will not be allowed to participate in the U.S. Olympic team trials in Charlotte on Sunday.
united states of america. The sport's national governing body, Field Hockey, ruled that the former UNC star, who led the Heels to a national championship as a 23-year-old coach last November, is ineligible.
The ruling, first reported by the Philadelphia Inquirer, came after Matson returned to play for Team USA at the Pan Am Cup tournament in Calgary, Alberta, Canada, last month.
“Part of playing in the indoor Pan Am Cup was to give (USA Field Hockey) a chance to see me play again,” Matson said, according to the Philadelphia Inquirer. “I loved being indoors. I grew up playing indoors.
“Unfortunately, USA Field Hockey chose not to let me try out, so it's a little bittersweet. But it was a great opportunity. I'm glad it worked out. Thank you to the athletic director, staff, and everyone on the team for their support. doing.”
The move has drawn the ire of UNC, but hopes remain that the decision will be reversed.
UNC Board of Governors Chairman John Pryor said in a statement Thursday: “For mysterious reasons, Erin has been denied the opportunity to be considered for the U.S. Olympic Team at the April 7 trial in Charlotte.” Stated. “Why wouldn't American Field Hockey give the greatest American athlete of all time a chance to compete for a spot on the Olympic team? Erin meets all the criteria and has earned the full support of her colleagues and team at the University of Carolina. is willing, able and ready to go to Charlotte on Sunday with the support of .”
This is a developing story and will be updated
