NFHCA selects Louisville Magic Director Erin McCrudden as 2025 Redwood Grantee

MANAHAWKIN, NJ — The National Field Hockey Coaches Association (NFHCA) Sport Development Committee is proud to announce Erin McCrudden, founder and director of Louisville Magic FHC, as the recipient of the 2025 Redwood Grant. This annual grant supports entrepreneurial field hockey coaches by providing funding and 10 months of mentorship to grow their initiatives.

McCrudden, who launched Louisville Magic in 2024, is committed to delivering a premier athlete experience through innovative coaching, mentorship, and supportive services. Her goal is to inspire every player to reach their fullest potential both on and off the field.

“I am incredibly honored and humbled to be selected as a recipient of this coaching grant by the NFHCA, especially knowing how many deserving and passionate applicants were considered,” McCrudden shared. “This opportunity means so much not only to me personally but also to our entire field hockey program and the broader community we serve.”

As part of the Redwood Grant, McCrudden will be mentored by Ainslee Lamb, CEO of Performance Sport Events, and NFHCA Sport Development Committee member.

McCrudden plans to use the Redwood Grant funding to expand the reach of field hockey into Louisville, Kentucky’s public school system, including Jefferson and Oldham counties, where access to the sport is currently limited. By partnering with public schools to provide equipment, training programs, and coaching support, McCrudden aims to introduce the sport to a wider and more diverse group of students, creating new opportunities for them to play at the high school, club, and collegiate levels.

“Receiving this grant affirms the importance of the roots we are planting here—creating a strong foundation for community and a love for field hockey,” McCrudden added. “I am deeply grateful for the mentorship, resources, and belief being put into our program. It will help us continue to grow and expand our impact. Most importantly, we are instilling values of teamwork, perseverance, and service, ensuring that our players leave not only as better athletes but also as engaged community members who will grow the game for years to come.”

Louisville Magic is also working to develop adaptive programs, adult leagues, and expanded opportunities for boys to continue playing field hockey past age 14—areas McCrudden sees as underdeveloped locally and nationally. Having coached youth boys overseas, she believes there is significant potential for a successful boys’ program. The club hosted its first adaptive clinic in early March and has a small but passionate group of adult players who train weekly, with plans to launch a full adult league in the near future.

“One of the most exciting aspects of this journey is the opportunity to connect with fellow coaches and leaders across the United States,” McCrudden said. “Sharing ideas, experiences, and dreams with others who are committed to youth sports and the growth of field hockey is incredibly inspiring and energizing.”

Each Redwood Grant recipient receives $2,500 to support their initiatives, waived registration fees for the 2026 NFHCA Annual Convention, and the opportunity to engage in quarterly meetings and mentorship sessions throughout the year.

The Redwood Grant is made possible entirely through the generosity of NFHCA donors, and contributions are collected year-round to continue supporting ambitious coaches like McCrudden.

The National Field Hockey Coaches Association (NFHCA) is a nonprofit organization serving field hockey coaches and supporters of the game from across the United States. The mission of the organization is to champion, strengthen, and celebrate field hockey coaches and the game. The NFHCA strives to cultivate and recognize the professional contributions of its membership and to foster and promote the growth of the sport. The NFHCA is responsible for providing a recognizable presence and voice in regard to legislation affecting the sport as well as interscholastic and intercollegiate programs.