ASHBURN, Va. — Mackenzie Rowan would describe herself as silly and adventurous, but this sporty girl has been playing since she was 5.

“I started playing field hockey in kindergarten and played for Potomac Field Hockey Rec League during the spring and fall seasons,” Rowan said.

Now 11 years old, she plays a variety of sports year-round.

“I play for the Hammers Evo field hockey travel league for the 2021 spring, fall, and winter seasons,” Rowan said. “I also play for Eastern Loudoun Basketball League (ELBL) for their winter season.” 

Whether on the field or the court, Rowan loves to take charge and challenge herself.

“I love playing field hockey because it is a team sport. The team can draw on the strengths of individual players to become really strong. We also show a lot of respect towards each other, our coaches, and opposing team players,” Rowan said. “Many people think field hockey is a bunch of girls running around with sticks and kilts. They come and watch our games, and realize how tough the sport is, and how much grit is involved!”

Her favorite position in field hockey to play is defensive positions because she loves the feeling of having to challenge and steal the ball from the opposing team when they are rushing down the field. 

“Last year, I was playing defense when I noticed our goalkeeper (and good friend) was dragging and struggling to keep up,” Rowan said.

It was over 95 degrees that afternoon playing on the turf at Evergreen Mills Sportsplex.

“Our goalkeeper was wearing so much heavy goalie gear, and I knew she was feeling the heat even more than the rest of our team,” Rowan said. “She desperately needed a break, and we still went on to win the game without a goalie for a short period of time!” 

Their team was undefeated last season.

Growing up, Rowan’s adventurous spirit has led her to explore new sports and activities.

“I started taking surfboarding lessons at the age of six, and most recently, I learned to ski! I have been enjoying it so much,” Rowan said. 

Rowan’s passion for adventure and sports comes from her biggest fans- her family! Mom, Michelle, Dad, Scott, and little brother, Michael, can often be found on the sidelines cheering her and the team on.

“I love how the parents unite, and cheer for us. My family loves coming to watch my games, and my mom claims it is the “highlight of her week!” Mackenzie said. 

Mackenzie wants other kids to remember, “Don’t be afraid to try a new sport out. You may surprise yourself with some extra rewards. Often it is a new skill learned, a boost of self-confidence, or even a new friendship that was made.”

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