Iowa Well-Represented on U.S. National Squad

July 18, 2013

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Editor’s Note: The following first appeared in the University of Iowa’s Hawk Talk Daily, an e-newsletter that offers a daily look at the Iowa Hawkeyes, delivered free each morning to thousands of fans of the Hawkeyes worldwide.

IOWA CITY, Iowa — The University of Iowa field hockey program has been well represented on the United States Women’s National Team through the years. This year is no different, as former Hawkeye All-Americans Meghan Beamesderfer and Lauren Pfeiffer have been named to the 2013-14 squad.

Beamesderfer becomes the 21st former Hawkeye to represent the red, white and blue on the national squad. Pfeiffer has been a member of the team since 2009.

“The Hawkeyes are thrilled to have two of our own on the National Squad,” said UI head coach Tracey Griesbaum. “To be able to play for your country is a huge honor.

“Lauren and Meg were highly successful Division I field hockey student-athletes. Their skills, athleticism, and determination have continued to help them accomplish goals in their sport. We wish them well as they prepare for World Cup qualification throughout this year.”

Beamesderfer finished her Hawkeye career as a two-time All-American, a four-time regional All-American and a three-time All-Big Ten honoree. In 2006, she was named Big Ten Freshman of the Year. As a senior in 2009, she led the team in goals (10) and defensive saves (four) and was named Big Ten Defensive Player of the Year.

Pfeiffer, a two time All-American at Iowa, earned all-region honors three times, first team All-Big Ten honors twice and was named Big Ten Tournament MVP twice. She was selected to play in the NFHCA All-Star game as a senior after leading Iowa in points (44) and goals (20). She ended her career with 53 goals to rank ninth in program history.

The duo helped lead Iowa to the 2008 NCAA Final Four and three-straight Big Ten Tournament Championships (2006-08). Now, it is time to switch colors.

“There is something really special about putting on that red, white and blue uniform,” said Pfeiffer. “It has made me realize that this is about more than me and what I am doing in field hockey. It is about Team USA and representing this country, and I’ll always have my black and gold roots.”

“My family has been my rock, and the University of Iowa taught me to be the kind of athlete I am today,” said Beamesderfer. “I am proud to be an American, and to live in this free country — the greatest place to live in the world. Now wearing red, white and blue, I represent all three that have molded me and made me who I am today. I have a lot to be thankful for.”

Few get the chance to represent their country in the sport they love. For Beamesderfer and Pfeiffer, it is an honor and a dream come true.

“When I was a young girl I dreamed of playing hockey at the collegiate and national level,” said Beamesderfer. “I respected and admired those women on those teams; they were my role models. I now hope to inspire a young girl and demonstrate how hard work, dedication, and perseverance pay off. To be on the National Team is a dream come true.”

“It has been an amazing experience being on the team these past four years and a privilege to be asked again,” said Pfeiffer. “This is such an exciting time for our program with a new coach and our move to Lancaster, Pa., and I am very honored to be a part of it.”

The duo played under head coach Tracey Griesbaum and associate head coach Lisa Cellucci — two Hawkeyes with extensive USA Field Hockey backgrounds. Their work in Iowa City prepared them for this opportunity.

“It is always nice having other Hawks around, and Meg will bring great things to the National Team,” said Pfeiffer. “She has worked hard to get here and will represent both Iowa and USA in a positive light.”

“The Iowa tradition includes tough, dedicated athletes with strong work ethics,” said Beamesderfer. “As former Hawkeyes, we were developed in this atmosphere. Because of the coaching and training we both had, it is an honor to continue to play alongside another former Hawkeye.”