Harvard Field Hockey Makes Power Move, Hires Four-Time National Champion Coach Lauren McNally

CAMBRIDGE, Mass. – In a bold move that signals its championship ambitions, the Harvard field hockey program has officially welcomed Lauren McNally to its coaching staff as a new assistant coach ahead of the 2025 season. The Crimson are poised to elevate their performance and competitive edge under McNally’s guidance, adding a coach whose track record speaks for itself: four consecutive national championships, multiple All-Americans, and a coaching résumé that commands national attention.

🏑 From Middlebury Magic to Harvard Ambition

Lauren McNally joins Harvard after an extraordinary four-year tenure as an assistant coach at Middlebury College, where she was a driving force behind one of the most dominant runs in NCAA Division III field hockey history. From 2021 through 2024, McNally helped lead Middlebury to four straight NCAA National Championships, stretching the Panthers’ historic title streak to an astounding seven consecutive wins—a feat unmatched in modern collegiate field hockey.

Twice during her tenure—in 2021 and 2023—Middlebury went an undefeated 22-0, cementing their place as a dynasty in the sport. And McNally wasn’t just along for the ride. She played a pivotal role in the development and success of the team, turning talented athletes into legends.

👑 Building Champions: McNally’s Legacy at Middlebury

McNally’s coaching excellence goes beyond team success. She cultivated an environment where individual talent thrived. Under her leadership:

• Two Panthers earned NFHCA Division III National Player of the Year honors:

  • Erin Nicholas (2021)

  • Amy Griffin (2023, 2024)

• 12 players received NFHCA All-America honors

  • Nine of whom were named to the First Team

• In 2022, Erin Nicholas, a product of McNally’s mentorship, was honored with the Honda Division III Athlete of the Year award, recognizing her as the most outstanding female athlete across all sports in Division III.

McNally’s excellence was recognized beyond the field too. She was part of a Middlebury coaching staff named NFHCA Division III National Coaching Staff of the Year three years running (2021–2023)—a rare and respected distinction in collegiate athletics.

💼 A Scholar and a Leader

A native of Ocean City, New Jersey, McNally’s coaching journey began after a decorated playing career at Penn State, where she contributed to a Big Ten Championship in 2016. Known not only for her skill on the turf but for her excellence in the classroom, she was a four-time All-Big Ten Academic Team honoree—a testament to her discipline and leadership.

She holds a bachelor’s degree in elementary education from Penn State and a master’s in athletic leadership from Castleton, where she also gained valuable coaching experience as a graduate assistant in 2020.

💬 McNally’s First Words as a Crimson

“I am truly honored and excited to be joining the Harvard field hockey program and being a part of such a prestigious institution,” McNally said. “I look forward to contributing to the team’s success and working alongside Tjerk, Kiley, and the student-athletes.”

That excitement is mutual. With McNally on board, Harvard Field Hockey is making it clear: they’re not just participating—they’re competing for greatness.

🔮 What This Means for Harvard

With the 2025 season looming, McNally’s arrival is more than a coaching hire—it’s a statement of intent. Harvard is building a coaching powerhouse alongside head coach Tjerk van Herwaarden and assistant Kiley Gallagher. This trio brings elite-level experience, national championship pedigree, and a shared passion for athlete development that could redefine the Crimson’s future.

McNally’s deep knowledge of high-level play, her ability to shape champions, and her proven tactical acumen will undoubtedly elevate the program and attract high-caliber recruits nationwide.

📣 Eyes on the Future

All signs point to Harvard Field Hockey entering a new era of intensity, excellence, and ambition. With Lauren McNally joining the coaching staff, the Crimson are setting the stage for a monumental 2025 campaign—and the rest of the Ivy League better be paying attention.

Let the games begin. 🏑🔥