Celebrating Field Hockey at USM

University School of Milwaukee celebrated the sport of field hockey with a multi-divisional collaboration on Tuesday, Sept. 29. The entire field hockey program at USM, from 5th to 12th grade, gathered to celebrate the sport through practice stations and scrimmages. It was a great day of learning, leadership, and fun.

“We love to build community throughout our Middle School and Upper School programs at USM, all playing the same sport,” said Andrea Burlew ’93, USM kindergarten teacher and varsity field hockey head coach. “We want to keep our Middle School players excited about the sport and about playing on the turf field and being part of the Upper School program. I think the best connection is to have one-on-one experiences with Upper School players.”

Upper School players, meanwhile, enjoyed the chance to be leaders for the younger athletes. They lead typical drills and exercises to teach the younger players new skills and teamwork. “Our Upper School athletes remember what it was like to be a Middle Schooler, so to experience the day now as an older varsity or junior varsity player is fun.”  

The sport has had a long tradition at USM, which has had a field hockey team since its doors opened in 1964. Two of USM's three predecessor schools (Milwaukee Downer Seminary and Milwaukee University School) also had field hockey teams dating back to the 1920s.  

Many thanks to field hockey players and families who support the program, along with the following individuals who currently serve as varsity, junior varsity, and Middle School coaches: Gretchen Bechthold ’16, Andrea Burlew ’93, Harriette Engel ’14, Lexie Epperson ’19, Erin Heaney, Claire Kartz, Gretchen Mathews ’06, and Sarah Titus ’00.